Transferring Fish to QT to treat ICH - Advice needed!

[Jas139]

Hi All

I am beginning the process of setting up a QT to treat Ich - with Cupramine/ lowered salinity (to reduce stress). I am planning to transfer fish from 1.025 to 1.020 (by acclimatising fish with drip line) - same PH, although will eventually reduce PH to 8.0 in QT once established (to minimise effects of ammonia). Is this ok?

I intend to leave them there for 6 weeks (is exposure to copper for this long ok?), so want to make sure that the filtration in my main tank is kept fed. The tank is 60 gallons, so my main question is, what do I need to add and in what quantity should I add it, to keep the bacteria alive.

One final question, any tips on catching a mandarine? I have read that they are not as susceptible to ick as other fish, but dont really want to risk leaving in the main tank in case this fish is carrying the disease and reinfects the other fish when transferred back.

I really would appreciate any help

 

[rabagley]

Don't worry about the bacteria in the main tank. The established tank with sand and live rock will retain enough capacity to handle the fish when you bring them back. I would recommend bringing over the fish in small groups over a couple of days to avoid adding one big blast of new ammonia sources, but even then, an established tank can adapt those bacterial populations fairly quickly, so as long as nobody is really sensitive, you'll be okay.

I'd be more concerned with reacclimating them to the tank in the right order. Remember, the less active animals should be moved back before more active animals to maximize the chances of everyone getting along again. Your shy fish may never get comfortable in the tank if they're moved back after some of the more aggressive fish.

Regards,
Ross

 

[Jas139]

Thanks for the advice Ross