QT System

[ZenAqua]

So I'd like to set-up not just a single QT tank, but a QT system. I have quite a few display tanks, and need to QT many fish at once (anywhere from 5-15). In the past I've been pretty lax with QTing so now it's time to do this right!

My initial plan was to plumb 4 10 gallon tanks, 3 20s, or some combination to a sump with skimmer for all new arrivals. Or a 40-50 gallon tank with sections? Sump would contain bio material, as well. I'd like to treat all new arrivals with Prazi, and Cupramine/CP. Still debating on Metro and Formalin.

But would any issues arise from using this type of system? Is it overkill? Would I ever need to drain and bleach the entire system? I'm aiming to make things as easy as possible in terms of treating most fish with the same meds, keeping salinity constant, keeping water clean.

I'd also anticipate incorporating one or two traditional QT tanks on the rack with just power filters and bio media, for the purpose of isolating certain fish.

Am I on the right track with this system? Or if you were in my shoes, how would you do it?

Thanks!

 

[scooter31707]

Anything that is plumbed together will be infected together. That's why you see most LFS with a lot tanks with ich.

 

[ThRoewer]

Unless you want to buy large fish I would rather go with a shelf full of 10 or 20 gallon tanks. All have to be separated with individual filters, heaters,... Often a hob filter and a heater are enough. Skimmer, if needed can be simple airstone operated models (a tube, collection cup, limewood airstone and air pump) - which are generally far more efficient than the 'high tech' nano skimmers.

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[ZenAqua]

Anything that is plumbed together will be infected together. That's why you see most LFS with a lot tanks with ich.

That's what I figured, too. But if they're all coming from the same system...wouldn't they all be infected (or not) with something, and thus need the same treatment? I'm going for efficiency with the system, while having one or two tanks available for more specialized treatment.

So the risk, if I'm understanding correctly, is that the QT system becomes infected (mostly concerned with velvet), and it can't be totally eradicated without tearing it down completely. Wouldn't treating all newcomers with CP negate this concern?