Eradicating Ich

[ChrisKirkland]

So my 300 Gallon tank had an Ich out break. I have removed all fish and put them into QT under a copper treatment.

I have 2 questions:

1. How long do I need to leave the tank Fallow for to guarantee the ich is gone?

2. Could I put my Blenny and sandsifter back in before the fallow period is over? I understand these are less susceptible to ich.

 

[Halo_003]

Based on my limited knowledge....


1. at least 8 weeks

2. I wouldn't, because IIRC they can act as a carrier if there is any of the ich remaining in the tank, they just wouldn't show signs of it like the other fish would.

 

[HumbleFish]

1. How long do I need to leave the tank Fallow for to guarantee the ich is gone?

According to the sticky, going 6 weeks fallow gives you a 99.8% chance of eradication. However, many have chosen to go longer after reading about one strain were "theronts were not released until 72 days after initial tomont formation*".

* Source: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fa164

2. Could I put my Blenny and sandsifter back in before the fallow period is over? I understand these are less susceptible to ich.

No. The aquarium must remain completely "fishless" during the fallow period. Some species that are "less susceptible to ich" have thick mucous coats protecing their skin, but their gills are just as susceptible as any other species.

 

[ChrisKirkland]

Interesting point. I thought 6-8 weeks also. Let's see what others think too.

 

[zeebies]

1. 12 weeks fallow.

2. Nothing goes in before 12 weeks. For me, that means no rock, corals, inverts, etc. And certainly no fish.

3. Don't take chances. Patience will pay off. :thumbsup:

 

[snorvich]

According to the sticky, going 6 weeks fallow gives you a 99.8% chance of eradication. However, many have chosen to go longer after reading about one strain were "theronts were not released until 72 days after initial tomont formation*".

* Source: http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fa164

No. The aquarium must remain completely "fishless" during the fallow period. Some species that are "less susceptible to ich" have thick mucous coats protecing their skin, but their gills are just as susceptible as any other species.

This.