How to keep bacteria alive in QT tank when tank is empty?

[Fmellish]

I'd like to keep my QT tank up and running between fish, but when there's no fish in it I doin't know how to keep its biology alive.

I'm sure most of you will say use a sponge from my main tank, but is there any other way?

And does anyone know how long it takes before bacteria will starve and disappear? it it takes months, then there's no issue.

Thanks
Josh

 

[joe90usa]

You might want to keep a damsel or two in the tank while it's not needed to keep things going. Keep it a very bare tank at all times so that you can retrieve the damsel(s) when you need to use it for a sick fish. You may be able to work out an exchange program with your LFS where you can give and get as you need.

 

[dead beat reef]

live sand should work. you have to feed the sand. fish poo invert food ect. if you dose copper than you have no bio. anyway.

 

[PatMayo]

Have you read this? Wise words.

Regards,

Pat

http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2004-10/sp/feature/index.php

 

[RicksReefs]

to keep a tank biologically active, throw a little fishfood in a couple times a week. without predators, you'll have a pod farm in no time.

 

[Fmellish]

Thanks guys. All good stuff

 

[dead beat reef]

the 5 gal nano has inch and 1/2 or so of livesand a powerhead
and a cheapo light pods feather dusters worms ect. live in it full
time. feed it clean it. its ready at all times. oh did I say a manits
shrimp calls it home. meet capt. kaozs. just sayen a small tank
treated just like the big tank is what you want.