QT water change question

[mrbacony]

Every other time I have quarantined, I started with a cycled tank. This time I am going to rely on frequent water changes to reduce ammonia levels. I am only quarantining one fish in a 10 gallon tank. How often will I need to do water changes and how much each time?

 

[Jedi Knghit]

It will depend on the size of the fish and how much you feed.

I have always had good luck with a sponge filter or a HOB filter with sponge in it. If possible, soak the sponge in your sump for 30+ days. If not, use bottled bacteria.

 

[Glenner’sreef]

You don’t want your ammonia levels high with fish in it. Test, keep it at zero. Check it at least every two days.

 

[mrbacony]

I have had it running for a couple of days with a sponge that has been in my sump for at least 4 months. So it does have bacteria in it. I am just concerned since the tank is small that the ammonia levels could sneak up on me. Twice a day changes? Only once?
I plan on testing throughout the day as much as I can.

 

[Glenner’sreef]

I have had it running for a couple of days with a sponge that has been in my sump for at least 4 months. So it does have bacteria in it. I am just concerned since the tank is small that the ammonia levels could sneak up on me. Twice a day changes? Only once?
I plan on testing throughout the day as much as I can.

That sounds totally reasonable. Good luck.

 

[jmichaelh7]

What’s the verdict

change water according to ammonia badge ?

 

[TastesLikeChicken]

Test water daily and change accordingly. If your tank is not cycled you will probably have to change water daily. The good news is that it’s only 10 gallons, so not too bad.

 

[mrbacony]

I don’t trust the ammonia badge at all. I had 2 Bangaii Cardinals in QT a while back with the badge. It showed no ammonia but I lost one of the cardinals. Turns out there was quite a bit of ammonia