Nervous setting up my first QT tank

[phatduckk]

Hi folks,

So, I promise I've searched the forums and read as much as I can... but, I'm still nervous.

Here's the situation: I'm planning on starting the cycle on my first reef tank as soon as I get back from my trip this week. I was thinking I'd QT of my first 2 fish (paired, juvenile clowns from LFS) while I wait for my tank to cycle. First off - if this is a terrible idea please let me know... if its not then let me know if my plan can use some tweaks.

So I have a 10 gallon tank that I'll use for QT. I painted the sides/bottom, have an HOB, heater, powerhead, ammonia badge, thermometer & PVC hiding spots ready too go. Since I don't have an established tank to seed bacteria with I was thinking I'd buy some Dr Tim's/Bio-Spira etc pour it all over the HOB's sponge filter, acclimate the fish & pop them in. Unless I misread/misunderstood I believe this is in line with @Humblefish's article... please correct me if I'm wrong.

If this sounds sane - my question is: when should I add the fish? If im way off whack - please set me straight =)

 

[phatduckk]

Anyone?

 

[Hair Algae Wizard]

Following, as I'm in the same situation. I'm sure some folks will respond soon. This forum is awesome!

 

[artieg1]

That sounds right to me. From personal experience, I'd err on the side of adding Bio-Spira each day. Ammonia badges never seemed to work for me, so keep an eye on the fish for stress even if the badge is not alerted. I would change 25% of the water a few times a week to make sure. Err on the side of keeping the water free from ammonia, that is where QT most often fails, because there is no biofilter yet. Powerhead is critical for oxygen exchange. And I'd make sure that they are happily eating for 1-2 weeks before you add any prophylactic additives (e.g., copper, prazi, etc.).

 

[phatduckk]

That sounds right to me. From personal experience, I'd err on the side of adding Bio-Spira each day. Ammonia badges never seemed to work for me, so keep an eye on the fish for stress even if the badge is not alerted. I would change 25% of the water a few times a week to make sure. Err on the side of keeping the water free from ammonia, that is where QT most often fails, because there is no biofilter yet. Powerhead is critical for oxygen exchange. And I'd make sure that they are happily eating for 1-2 weeks before you add any prophylactic additives (e.g., copper, prazi, etc.).

sweet. thanks! ya ill definitely keep an on ammonia & nitrite. appreciate the feedback!