First QT tank questions...

[Coxey81]

Hi, just wanted to make sure I have this right. I have ordered some sponge filters, I plan to place one in my cycled display tank for about a month to build bacteria. Then I plan to place it in my QT tank and follow this protocol. I'll also have a HOB filter that I'll just use a sponge in.

Does all that sound good?

Current Quarantine Protocol

2024 Quarantine Procedures Jay Hemdal David Scarborough Protozoans (Cryptocaryon/ich, Amyloodinium/velvet) and Metazoan trematodes/flukes are by far the most common parasites found on newly acquired fish. A carefully managed, proactive quarantine process can effectively eliminate these...

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[Jay Hemdal Verified Community Expert]

I prefer to cycle sponges longer than a month. It is difficult to know when enough bacteria has colonized on it. Remember, in an established tank, there isn’t a lot of need for new bacteria to grow.
One trick is to run the sponge in a bucket of seawater spiked with ammonium chloride after it has been in a sump for a few weeks, that can really jump start the bacteria.
Jay

 

[Coxey81]

I prefer to cycle sponges longer than a month. It is difficult to know when enough bacteria has colonized on it. Remember, in an established tank, there isn’t a lot of need for new bacteria to grow.
One trick is to run the sponge in a bucket of seawater spiked with ammonium chloride after it has been in a sump for a few weeks, that can really jump start the bacteria.
Jay

I prefer to cycle sponges longer than a month. It is difficult to know when enough bacteria has colonized on it. Remember, in an established tank, there isn’t a lot of need for new bacteria to grow.
One trick is to run the sponge in a bucket of seawater spiked with ammonium chloride after it has been in a sump for a few weeks, that can really jump start the bacteria.
Jay

K thanks, that's my biggest worry/ concern is when it will be ready to handle and cycle the QT tank