WHY FISH QUARANTINE IS A NON-NEGOTIABLE MUST

FISH QUARANTINE, A MUST FOR SURVIVAL

 In the world of fishkeeping, some advice remains timeless. The central message is as crucial today as it was then: quarantine your new fish.

For both aquarists and pond keepers, this practice is the single most effective way to prevent disaster.

WHAT IS FISH QUARANTINE?

Quarantine in the fish world refers to "the physical and chemical treatment of new fishes (either imported or caught from the wild) to rid them of diseases and restlessness before introduction into a new environment."

Source: Fluvalaquatics

Think of it as a mandatory health screening and acclimation period. Introducing a new fish directly into your established tank or pond is a gamble with very high stakes. That new arrival could be an "apostle of doom for the other inmates."

THE QUARANTINE SETUP AND CHALLENGE

A serious aquarist is advised to have a small, separate quarantine tank. The alternative is to patronize a pet shop that has a "functional quarantine section to cater for bacterial, fungal and viral diseases."

In the past, many shops lacked the space and expertise to properly administer this "prophylaxis procedure," which should last at least nine days. For shops, it was seen as an "unnecessary tie down of capital." This often meant that the responsibility—and cost—of quarantine fell on the aquarist.

Admittedly, the expense for chemicals like copper sulphate, wescodyne, Malachite green, and Terramycin was high. But, they paid off in the long run, as it was unlikely that the aquarist would complain of fish deaths any longer."

A Reader's Success and a Search for Knowledge

The advice resonated with readers. In a follow-up, a pond keeper from Badagry shared their positive experience:

"I have adopted the practice of putting new purchases of fish in a Holding Tank for a couple of days before introducing them into the pond."

This reader also highlighted the variable quality of fish in different shops, reinforcing why a personal quarantine system is essential. He asked for resources, pointing to a common need for more knowledge about fish diseases and symptoms.

Why Even "Healthy" Fish Need Quarantine

The expert's response to this reader is a crucial piece of insight for every fish keeper:

"Most fish will carry some parasites, even if they come from reputable suppliers. This is quite normal... However, the majority of fish are healthy enough to carry a certain 'safe load' without succumbing to disease."

The quarantine tank isn't just for visibly sick fish. It's a low-stress environment that prevents a fish with a "safe load" of parasites from being introduced into a new ecosystem where its immune system might be compromised, causing that safe load to become an outbreak.

Source: fishkeep & chill

A Vintage Book Recommendation: For those seeking deeper knowledge, the aquarist recommended "Diseases of Aquarium Fishes" by Dr. R.J. Goldstein (Hobby Books). Note, however, that such specialized books are very rare in the local market and often have to be ordered from abroad.

The core message is clear and unwavering. Quarantining new fish is not an optional, advanced technique; it is a "must for survival" and "the best way of preventing the spread of disease." Investing in a simple quarantine setup and a little patience is the ultimate insurance policy for the health and longevity of your aquatic pets.