Too early to quarantine?

[Thornbreaker]

Would there be any issues with starting a quarantine up months before my main display is ready? I don't think my DT will be ready till late January early February, due to budget.

However, since I've got a 20 gal and most of the equipment for a QT, I've been thinking about getting a pair of clowns before Thanksgiving (provided my saltwater mixing station is ready too).
This means they'd be in the QT for a few months instead of the usual 4 to 8 weeks I've seen recommended.

Would there be any issues with doing that? I figure it may be a good way to get into the routine of QT, feeding, mixing water, testing, etc. before my 150 gal DT is ready to go.

 

[homer1475]

Sounds like a fine plan to me.

Besides even if you start your tank in February, it probably wont cycle for another 6 to 8 weeks anyways. The clowns will be in QT for plenty of time by then.

 

[SAT]

+1
A well set up quarantine tank should be able to hold the fish indefinitely.

 

[Thornbreaker]

Thanks y'all.

If I've got a hang on the back filter for the QT, do I need a power head or air stone at all for increased oxygen exchange?

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[homer1475]

In a 20G with no corals, the HOB will be fine.

 

[heathlindner25]

No bacteria, the fish will suffer. Everyone cycles the main tank but have no problem putting fish in a raw qt.

 

[Thornbreaker]

I plan to cycle the QT, esp since it'll be up and running for a good bit of time.

I've just seen some people who mention a powerhead/air stone and some who've gone without that, so wanted to make sure it wasn't needed if the HOB causes enough agitation for oxygen exchange.

Thank y'all for the replies.

 

[scooter31707]

Thanks y'all.

If I've got a hang on the back filter for the QT, do I need a power head or air stone at all for increased oxygen exchange?

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I would recommend one if you have to dose meds to get a more oxygen in the tank. Some meds are known to deplete oxygen.

 

[sde1500]

I'd doubt that a bio-wheel HOB would be able to house enough bacteria to properly keep a few fish long term. I would add https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/sponge-filter-hydra.html as well. This can help add more oxygen to the water and allows for another surface for bacteria to populate.