Paraguard and substrate

[Mschmidt]

I am starting a cycled qt for my new fish and as such have added aragonite from a cycled tank. Now I am fine either way, but want to be sure I don't create issues in the future. Will the aragonite substrate absorb the paraguard as it would copper or other treatments? I ask because I would like to replace the substrate when the qt is over, but will find another use if there will be an issue.

 

[Jekyl]

Normally QT is done without any substrate as it can leach meds.

 

[Jay Hemdal Verified Community Expert]

I am starting a cycled qt for my new fish and as such have added aragonite from a cycled tank. Now I am fine either way, but want to be sure I don't create issues in the future. Will the aragonite substrate absorb the paraguard as it would copper or other treatments? I ask because I would like to replace the substrate when the qt is over, but will find another use if there will be an issue.

The aldehydes in Paraguard wouldn't be an issue, but I can't say of the malachite green would be or not. I know it can stain silicone sealant. I''ll tag our resident chemist: @Randy Holmes-Farley

Jay

 

[Mschmidt]

The aldehydes in Paraguard wouldn't be an issue, but I can't say of the malachite green would be or not. I know it can stain silicone sealant. I''ll tag our resident chemist: @Randy Holmes-Farley

Jay

Thanks Jay. Seachems website wasn't super clear for me. They suggest a different product for reefs, but I can't see myself buying more just to have it go bad before I get to use even half. I'm sure the reef chemist would know.

 

[Jay Hemdal Verified Community Expert]

Thanks Jay. Seachems website wasn't super clear for me. They suggest a different product for reefs, but I can't see myself buying more just to have it go bad before I get to use even half. I'm sure the reef chemist would know.

Personally, I don’t use Paraguard on marine fish, only FW. I find that coppersafe works better for me. I might use Paraguard against brooklynella, but that’s about it.
Jay

 

[Mschmidt]

But prophylactically (had to look up the spelling of that) copper is recommended? That does seem to be the standard. I am now asking myself if it's worth saving $5.

 

[Jay Hemdal Verified Community Expert]

Yes, preventative coppersafe treatments is our standard quarantine now. The full process is outlined here:

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...

www.reef2reef.com

Jay