Tank transfer method - Setup and prophylactic treatments?

[Jimbob.]

Hi all,

I am quite interested in learning more about the tank transfer method to treat Ich when fish are in QT.

How it works, a set regime and equipment needed.

Also, how does this work alongside other treatments such as worming and flukes and such?

I am prepared to invest in a rigorous QT procedure after losing my first tank to Ich.

I would also like to know the procedure for Inverts and corals if anyone could be kind enough. I have invested a lot of money second time around and i am competent in most things other than QT.

Thanks

 

[snorvich]

My suggested protocol is to use tank transfer for all new specimens to insure against cryptocaryon irritans. 12 days and two 20 gallon tanks is all it takes.

The initial receiving tank is temp and SG adjusted to the bag water( SG a few points couple of points lower than the bag water is ok but not higher) This obviates the need for drip acclimation and prolonged stays in bag water where pH can rise and ammonia toxicity can increase once the bag is opened. This is particularly important after prolonged stays in the bag.

During the 12 day tank transfer process ( 3 day stays 4 transfers, move fish on the morning of days 4,7,10,13) observe for other maladies. Since there are no meds to interact with in the transfer tanks which contain freshly mixed salt water aged and aerated overnight , use an ammonia detoxifier during each 3 day period. Bound copper products for example can't be safely used with ammonia detoxifiers as more toxic free copper occurs with lethal copper toxicity,even though total copper measures the same.

If there is reason to suspect infestation with brooklynellosis, velvet or flukes , do a formalin bath before starting treatment with copper for velvet, formalin for brooklynellosis or prazi pro for flukes.

Since not all maladies will present symptoms in the 12 days( flukes can easily be missed, velvet can take up to 30 days to present), use a larger cycled QT tank for an additional 2 to 4 weeks of observation depending on the condition of the fish with treatment as necessary.

Most fish receive no medications yet all are effectively prophylactically treated for ich,the most common killer

Ammonia is monitored and has never been an issue during the 3 day stay but a detoxifier is added just in case, The cycled tank takes care of itself.

BTW there is no need to worry about nitrite or nitrate.

 

[Jimbob.]

Thank you Steve

So 12 days and then a 4 week observation period in an established, filtered QT? What meds would you recommend for this 4 week period?

 

[snorvich]

Thank you Steve

So 12 days and then a 4 week observation period in an established, filtered QT? What meds would you recommend for this 4 week period?

I always use Prazipro. The remaining treatment would depend on if you have problems. I think I have that information in my blog as well.

 

[Jimbob.]

Will check out your blog, thanks for the advice.

 

[CT Reefer]

+1 on this method. I use the TT method now and much prefer to copper (which some sensitive species cannot take). I just completed a round of this on my new specimens. I used a simple sponge filter during the TT stays. I also soak the food in Selcon to boost immunity.

 

[snorvich]

Yes, it works great. Remember it is is best to transfer in the mornings.