How do I create a fast and cheap QT?

Question: How do I create a fast and cheap QT?

Answer: To isolate and treat a diseased fish, quarantine a new critter before introducing it into your main aquarium, holding critters in while moving a tank, or whatever other use you may need to put together a QT quickly for, a quarantine tank doesn't need to be fancy, it just needs to work!

Here's how to set up a fast and cheap QT:

• Most any non-metal, clean container that will hold water will do. Buckets, coolers, kiddie pools, even bath tubs have been used with great success. Using a new, appropriately sized plastic bag as a liner in the QT will eliminate possible contaminants in the water.
• When you set up the QT, you will normally want to use fresh saltwater, rather than existing tank water.
• A biological filter isn't really needed if the QT is only going to be used for a short (days or even weeks) period of time. Just add an airstone or aeration device for water circulation, a heater if needed, and use a good ammonia control product to keep the ammonia level at zero. Amquel by Kordon is strongly recommended here.
• Vaccuuming any uneaten food and detritus from the bottom of the tank as well as performing small water changes on a daily basis will also help keep the ammonia level down, and the water quality up.
• When you are through with your makeshift QT, just empty it and dispose of the plastic bag liner.

As you can see, a quarantine tank doesn't have to be elaborate or expensive, it just needs to work.

Learn About >> How To Set Up a More Elaborate/Permenant QT