20 gallon QT too small?

[TobysReef]

Good Morning Reefers:


I originally set up a 20 gallon quarantine tank for introducing new fish into my display. It was fine for the pair of clowns and the Bangaii Cardinals I just moved over, but I am ready to adopt my next fish. I have been going back and forth on this for a couple of weeks, but I think for functionality, compatibility and the over all environment I keep going back to a One Spot Fox Face.


But my problem is the 20 gallon QT!!! Is it going to be too small to quarantine a 3 to 4 inch fox face for 2 to 3 weeks? I am concerned I will only FREAK and STRESS the poor thing out during the QT process.


Any help is greatly appreciated.


Thanks

 

[fairl80z]

I think it will be fine . I have used even a 10 gallon in the past .

 

[ilikefish34]

It doesn't sound too small, especially if that Foxface is closer to 3".

What is your QT protocol? 3-4 weeks sounds a bit short considering that the LFS's low copper levels, hypo-salinity or your own measures could mask certain problems that may need closer to 6 weeks to show themselves.

I start with a Formalin Dip (45mins), 20 gallon for TTM and prazi-pro and then they go into a 50 gallon QT for observations for 6 weeks.

Good Luck
Mike

 

[scooter31707]

I think you will be ok. If you get a chance to catch Petco $1 per 1 gallon sale, get a 20 gallon long. What a difference. I can get 3 distant size fish in there.

 

[ca1ore]

I use a 20 long as my primary QT, and have had as many as four 3" fish in there for up to three months without any problems.

 

[TobysReef]

wow! thanks for all of the feedback. Being new to the hobby it is helpful and I have to admit that that is the first time I have ever heard or seen "6 weeks" ... better safe than sorry... I have a 20 gallon that has been running since early December. I will do water changes with a partial from my display tank and I do not intend to use anything unless I start to see there may be an issue. I have a 40 gallon that I was going to start up as a hospital tank and might consider getting started on the immediately.