Substrate in QT

[aravindk]

Hello,

I have setup a new QT and currently have a Naso Tang, Yellow tang and a Foxface quarantining since yesterday. It is a 30 gallon tank and I use sand as a substrate in the QT. I have substrate in QT because I thought someday I will have a fish that requires sand (Goby or something). I am going to start Prazipro today and after a week planning to do a Cupramine treatment. My question is, will the sand substrate interfere with any of these treatments?

Another question I have is, I currently have a airstone running in the QT tank. I have seen some people leave the airstone in their hang on filter. What is the purpose of doing that?

Thanks in advance

 

[HumbleFish]

The sand will likely absorb some of the Cupramine, making it difficult to maintain a constant level (but I think the Prazi will be fine). Some people just put a small amount of sand in a pyrex bowl or something when it's time to QT a goby.

I can't think of any good reason to run an airstone in a HOB, unless there was a built-in skimmer or something. Haven't seen those in a while. The water breaking the surface from the HOB should provide enough gas exchange/O2.

 

[aravindk]

Thanks! Is it ok to remove the substrate while the fish in QT? This means additional stress for the fish in there. Does the additional stress worth it or should I wait until the fish completes their treatment but before adding more fish to QT?

 

[HumbleFish]

Thanks! Is it ok to remove the substrate while the fish in QT? This means additional stress for the fish in there. Does the additional stress worth it or should I wait until the fish completes their treatment but before adding more fish to QT?

When doing WCs, just suck some sand out until it's all gone. In the meantime, test Cu level daily to ensure it remains stable. Testing (and adding more Cupramine, if necessary) is best done just before the lights go out.