Silly question

[Psionicdragon]

How effective is it to change out a huge portion of the tank water monthly in combating ick/ich population?

I understand the logic that by changing out the amount of water; for example 75%, would reduce the population by the amount. However, how fast would the population raise again? 1 egg can produce 200 larva if I remember correctly.

 

[serpentman]

The method you mention is not unlike the use of a UV sterilizer. It focuses on reducing the amounts of a Tomites in the water. Rather than kill them, in this case you would remove them. However, because ich reproduces exponentially, it probably wouldn't buy you much time as the fish are most likely carrying a hefty amount of cysts. IMO, you would have to constantly change water which might end up being a little stressful to the fish.

That being said, this might be effective if the tank is fallow.

 

[Psionicdragon]

true, and thanks.

I thought as much. Have a uv and ozone going. Doesn't seem to be a huge dent.