Quarantining Fish: Do I Have To?
Ah, the dreaded question. Why can’t I just put my new fish in with the rest of them? I’ve never had an issue before! This bad habit can lead to more than just the loss of your new fish. Quarantine is recommended as the ideal way to prevent introducing disease into your aquarium. With commercial, local, and independent sources on the rise, it’s more vital now than ever to quarantine any new species you’re adding to your system.
Why Should I Quarantine?
Quarantining new fish is the most successful way to ensure no disease or parasites are being introduced into your aquarium. Pathogens are always present, and by adding a fish with even the slightest illness, this can trigger stress for other fish and cause illness to spread quickly. Even by purchasing from a trusted source, it is never a guarantee that your fish is healthy. By quarantining, you are able to observe your new fish for any signs of sickness and can treat it accordingly to ensure your aquarium’s inhabitants stay healthy. The recommended time duration for quarantine is 21-28 days. The most common reason for aquarists to skip this process is the time duration. Many who purchase a new fish want to enjoy it immediately in their aquarium, and we don’t blame them! Unfortunately, this introduces a risk of not only losing your new fish, but many or all of your current ones. It’s best to be safe than sorry and cover all of your bases to keep your aquarium happy and healthy!
How Do I Set Up A Quarantine Tank?
Ideally, a quarantine tank should be large enough to house the largest species of fish you would buy by itself. The water parameters should be as close to your aquarium as possible and should be treated the same. If you’re following the standard routine of water changes, water testing, and dosing then this should not be an issue. The tank should receive low light, have non-porous hides for fish (such as PVC pipes), and be treated with the same care as a display. The idea is to keep the fish’s stress levels as low as possible so they can be observed in a natural setting and have a smooth transition into your aquarium post quarantine. Medications should not be added until you have diagnosed an illness and created a treatment plan.
We hope you’re ready to start a quarantine tank! There’s nothing better than knowing you’re keeping your fish safe by taking these necessary precautions. Want help setting up a quarantine system? Let us know!