trying to sell that one currently.
If you do decide to purchase a copperband, ensure you have all meds ready.
I'm going to give it another crack. Whilst I am waiting for a good copperband to arrive at the LFS I will want to prepare.Not going to play in the QT or no QT sand bed however if you are doing fresh water dips or baths (yes, they are different) please check out Bob Fenner's "Dips/Baths, A Useful Protocol for Excluding Many External Fish Parasites" article on Wet Web Media. Specifically pay attention to Methylene blue. Takes freshwater dips to a whole new level for both fish and hobbyist by reducing stress to both parties
If I was to put another CBB into my display my first priority would be to find one locally so I can visually inspect. If not local then via online source with similar access (email photos). Check weather if shipping and plan accordingly then purchase. Next day/morning prep 2 x RO/DI water buckets, match ph, add Methylene blue to 1, room temp, equalize CBB, timer, and bath begins. During bath checking CBB frequently through the first 15 minutes. If fish is doing well decide if I want to run to 30 minute bath or stop at 15. Once dip/bath is done using a gloved hand gently remove CBB and rinse in 2nd RO/DI bucket and then place into display with lights out.
TL;DR: To quote Mr. Fenner: "Methylene blue is a good oxygenating dye, sort of like our blood's hemoglobin, aiding in keeping oxygen concentration high".
There seems to be different schools of thought regarding QT or not QT in regards to CBB. And most other fish for that matter. From my research, there are just as many successes and failures with both methods. Most of us not named @Paul B are not in a position to use natural sea water, wild caught clams & rocks directly from the ocean teaming with disease fighting bacteria and pathogens. So QT seems to be the best option. My feeling is if you are a QT person, then why change your routine. There's probably the same risk for failure either way so why not stick to the protocol with which you are comfortable. In QT you can target feed various foods without fierce competition. In the DT there will be, or should be, abundant rocks, pods etc for him to explore and pick at. So I get the benefit of both ways. I do agree the absolute most important thing with a CBB (or most fish for that matter) is to make sure they are eating before you purchase. Again, unless your name is @Paul B in which case your fish arrive with knife and fork in hand. Second most important thing is to have the proper foods available prior to purchase. In the case of a CBB, live black worms, clams and mysis should all be on hand. I made sure mine was eating good and not thin before I medicated in QT in case he stopped eating. Then he was removed from medication after 10 days to new observation QT with seasoned filtration and several live rocks with aiptasia, algae, bugs etc. Hes been in the 220 DT for over a month now and and along with his buddy, a Moorish Idol, are kings of the tank. Time will tell if my way is truly a success, but for now my magic 8 ball is saying "Outlook Good"
