adding new fish to my aquarium

[flame9x]

Considering the recent disease outbreaks among fish keepers, I think it's worth bringing in a new specimen and giving it some time to settle in the QT tank - say a week or so, till it's eating well. Then, as a precaution, we could hit it with some meds to prevent any potential issues.

[fleeton]

I'm not a fan of preventatively medicating fish. Shipping already stresses them out, and throwing meds into the mix doesn't seem like the best approach to me.

[finleydive]

I still think quarantine is a good call. You can keep an eye on the fish, make sure it's eating well, and if something does pop up, it's way easier to treat. No need to throw meds at it if it's not necessary, just quarantine and observe.

[ReelRiot]

I'm a firm believer in quarantining for an extended period, at least two months to be safe. This way, you're giving yourself ample time to notice any potential issues with the fish. If you do happen to notice something's off, I'd recommend reaching out for Paraguard first. It's a great option since it doesn't contain copper, making it safe to use in a tank that you might plan on using for other fish down the line, like an angel. You can use it for freshwater dips or just add it directly to the tank, whichever you prefer.

[flame9x]

I'm all about QT - it's non-negotiable for me.

[ReelRiot]

Don't worry, no need to freak out, I just mentioned a week as a rough idea, wasn't set in stone.

[finleydive]

I usually QT for a couple of weeks, hasn't been an issue yet. ReelRiot, what's the reasoning behind the 2-month mark, is it just a precaution or something else?

[fleeton]

I still think quarantine is a good call. You can keep an eye on the fish, make sure it's eating well, and if something does pop up, it's way easier to treat. No need to throw meds at it if it's not necessary, just quarantine and observe.

Having gone through a devastating ich outbreak that took out half my stock, including some truly stunning fairy wrasses, and set me back around $400, I think that's all the reason I need to take the extra precautions.

[flame9x]

What are your thoughts on bringing in a new specimen, letting it settle in the QT tank for a bit till it's eating well, and then doing a preventative treatment with meds. I figured it'd be better to let the fish get comfortable and eating before hitting it with meds, rather than throwing it in right away.

[finleydive]

I'm just not convinced it takes that long for early signs of ich to show up, I mean, if it's there, it should be noticeable way before 2 months, right?