Cupramine + UV Sterilizer

[karaim]

I am treating my DT with Cupramine for an ich outbreak (I've done it before...NO inverts whatsoever, not even in the liverock as it was all dry rock).

Forgot to turn off my UV Sterilizer and just realized it (it's been 3 days). The UV breaks down Cupramine into more dangerous copper.

All fish are fine, except for a French Angel, which will not eat (but I am guessing it's due to copper in general)...

Would you recommend I remove all current Cupramine and start over without the UV? The UV is off now.

 

[MrTuskfish]

Some poop on Cupramine.http://www.seachem.com/support/FAQs/Cupramine.html

Dosing copper in a DT is difficult, at best. The LR & substrate absorbs some of it, so constant monitoring with a compatible test kit (SeaChem or Sailfert) is vital. Of course, remove the more dangerous copper compound ASAP, using carbon or Cupramine. Angels don't handle a full (.50ppm) dose of Cupramine well and the med is very effective at a lower level--say .35. be sure the Angel is eating before re-dosing. Introduce the copper over several days and then keep it there for the full treatment period. Test copper often and back off a few days if any fish shows a reaction. With sensitive fish, treatment can take longer, but can be done. Of course, leave the UV off; it does little to help cure any parasite problem. if you start using a QT on all new livestock, you should never see this problem again.

 

[snorvich]

What he said. UV provides a false sense of security. As a water clarifier I recommend it. As a parasite prevention mechanism, it is ineffective because not all water passes by it.

 

[LargeAngels]

What they said.

 

[karaim]

Thanks. I use UV not for parasite control but just because I have it

So for angels, .35 should suffice, interesting to know. The angel was eating at .25 but stopped at .5.

Anyway, I've already begun removing the more dangerous copper.

I actually do QT, except for diver's den fish, but I guess I will QT those as well.

 

[MrTuskfish]

Thanks. I use UV not for parasite control but just because I have it

So for angels, .35 should suffice, interesting to know. The angel was eating at .25 but stopped at .5.

Anyway, I've already begun removing the more dangerous copper.

I actually do QT, except for diver's den fish, but I guess I will QT those as well.

Sounds like you're on the right track. Even DD suggests their fish go into a QT.