Should I re-cycle my quarantine tank

vpotts28 · #1 10/24/2007, 12:00 PM

It has been several months since I have used my QT. I haven't been ghost feeding it at all. All of my attention was focused on battling a hair algae problem in my DT. Do I need to re-cycle the tank?? I highly doubt any bacteria in the tank has survived. TIA

Shewillbemine · #2 10/24/2007, 12:10 PM

I'd do it.

MinnFish · #3 10/24/2007, 12:13 PM

No need to cycle tank, if there are no LS or LR in it. A QT should have a powerhead, heater and a place to hide (PVC tee, elbow or something). A water change should be all you have to do.

kevin2000 · #4 10/24/2007, 02:53 PM

I break down and sterilize my QT after every fish.

While having a mature bio filter is helpful in running a QT - its not mandatory .. maintaining excellent water quality in a small Qt with one or two fish is no big deal .. just takes some water changes and making up a large batch of replacement water when you setup the tank is a good idea.

Many aquarist will keep some extra filter media within their show tank (sump or tucked behind some lr in the ST) .. with the use of mature media you can have "instant cycled QT".

Good luck.

racrumrine · #5 10/24/2007, 03:11 PM

When I want to set up my 25 gallon QT, I do a 25 gallon water change on the main tank to fill it up.

For filtration, I have an Eclipse Hood. When I don't have the QT set up, the Eclipse Bio Wheel stays in the sump of another tank.

I like using the Eclipse hood because it gives pretty good water movement and air exchange.

From the time I bring a new critter home, the set up of my QT only takes a few minutes.

Best of luck,

Roy

reefergeorge · #6 10/24/2007, 03:46 PM

I recommend tearing down your qt between uses. But to answer your question I would do a large wc and you should be fine.

aaron L · #7 10/24/2007, 04:37 PM

IMO, re-cycle it

wooden_reefer · #8 10/24/2007, 05:42 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by vpotts28
It has been several months since I have used my QT. I haven't been ghost feeding it at all. All of my attention was focused on battling a hair algae problem in my DT. Do I need to re-cycle the tank?? I highly doubt any bacteria in the tank has survived. TIA

I think some have survived, but yes definitely re-cycle it before getting new fish.

I will absolutely re-cycle.

Add a source of ammonia and bacteria seed and wait again.

Don't take any chances. You may need high nitrification capacity, especially if an antobiotic you have to use depresses nitrification.