How Do I Set Up a Quarantine Tank for My Reef?

A quarantine tank (QT) is essential for preventing disease outbreaks in your main reef tank. Setting one up is simpler and cheaper than most hobbyists expect.

Essential Equipment

• Tank: 10-20 gallons is ideal for most fish. Larger fish may need 29+ gallons.
• Heater: Adjustable heater rated for your tank size (50-100W)
• Filtration: Simple sponge filter or HOB filter. Keep media in your sump to stay cycled.
• Air pump & stone: For oxygenation, especially during medication
• PVC fittings: Cheap hiding spots that can be bleached between uses
• Thermometer: Monitor temperature stability
• Test kit: Ammonia test is critical during QT

Setup Tips

1. Keep it bare bottom - No substrate makes cleaning and medicating much easier
2. Use display tank water - Helps with immediate parameter matching
3. Pre-cycle your filter media - Keep a sponge in your sump so it's ready when needed
4. No live rock - Rock absorbs medications and harbors pests
5. Dim lighting - Reduces stress on new arrivals

Quarantine Duration

The standard quarantine period is 4-6 weeks for fish. This allows time to observe for diseases like ich, velvet, and flukes. Many reefers use a prophylactic treatment protocol during this time.

Cost Breakdown

A complete QT setup can cost as little as $50-100:

• 10-gallon tank: $15-25
• Heater: $15-25
• Sponge filter + air pump: $15-20
• PVC fittings: $5-10

The investment pays for itself by preventing a single disease outbreak that could wipe out hundreds or thousands of dollars in livestock.

Pro Tip

Keep your QT stored and ready to deploy. You can break it down between uses, but having the equipment on hand means you're always prepared for new arrivals or sick fish.

Looking for new fish to quarantine? Browse reef-safe fish on ReefBay from trusted sellers who care about livestock health.