Quarantine Tank Setup
300-500L bare tank with sponge filter + heater. Matched water parameters to source (from breeder info).
No decorations. Black background reduces stress. Dim lighting first week.
Week 1: Settle
Do not feed for the first 24 hours. Offer small live or frozen food from day 2. Observe swimming, breathing, and behavior.
Water change 30% on day 3 and day 7. Monitor parameters daily.
Week 2-3: Treat Prophylactically
Dose praziquantel 2mg/L for 3 days. Wait 3 days. Dose metronidazole 5mg/L for 5 days (parasites + protozoa).
Maintain 0.1% salinity throughout. Watch for worsening symptoms requiring antibiotics.
Week 4: Parameter Match
Gradually adjust quarantine water to match display tank (pH, TDS, temp) over 7 days.
On transfer day, acclimate via drip for 1 hour. Transfer with a large container, never a net.