TTM with minimal copper

[Liquidgold]

I am a firm believer in TTM for ich. I am aware of TTM variations (ie. more frequent exchanges, H202) to treat velvet but I am not confident these variations are rock-solidly proven. Although, copper with TTM seems redundant, I see potential advantages of using both at the same time. Typically, copper power levels should be 2.0-2.5 ppm when used alone and some fishes cannot tolerate these high levels. However, is there a lower threshold for copper (ie. 1-1.5 ppm) that will be effective against velvet when used in conjunction with TTM. Since the TTM will treat the ich, can a lower level of copper be effective for velvet and be better tolerated by most fishes?

The advantages of TTM with lower copper in my opinion would be.
1. Treats both ich and velvet.
2. No need to worry about established biofilter during transfers.

 

[Jay Hemdal Verified Community Expert]

Well, I’m not a strong advocate for tank transfer as many people try it and run into issues due to user error. I’m also a strong opponent for using sub-therapeutic doses of any medication...go all in or go home (grin). My experience has been even full dose copper struggles to contain velvet, and even ich in acute cases. I have other thoughts but I’m working off my phone waiting at the doctors.....and I have stubby fingers!
Jay