Quote:
Originally Posted by Woodstock  You won't get flammed  You bring up valid points of keeping the water quality high in a QT. Many, many QT fish are unfortunately subjected to poor water conditions due to high ammonia/nitrites and even nitrates. These poor conditions can occur with an uncycled tank AS WELL as a cycled QT and thus it is critical to test for ammonia & nitrites.
I will always encourage the use of QT for a minium of 6 weeks whether cycled or not. Daily testing (at least once a day but twice is even better) for ammonia and nitrites and the subsequent water changes necessary to keep those levels down are required for success.
Additional testing of nitrAtes (keep below 10ppm) and alkalinity are also part of a successful QT'ing procedure. Daily water changes are most often needed when QT'ing as is a quiet location for teh tank and adequate hiding areas for the fish. Doing these will ensure a successful and stress free QT period for the fish.
Either cycled or uncycled, QT'ing all new fish for at least 6 weeks is necessary to keep disease out of the main display. |
I don't think that point (the enlarged font) is stressed enough to beginners, but I think its absolutely crucial. If you don't do daily or every other day water changes, you could be causing your fish more harm than good.
I should also note that I am NOT condoning dropping new fish right into the tank. Especially after shipping, I feel they really do need some time on their own to get acquainted to your food and water...