A quarantine tank is a separate goldfish tank where new goldfish can be kept in isolation for a period of time and observed for any goldfish diseases it might have before introducing it into the main goldfish tank with the other goldfish. It also acts a quarantine tank to treat any sick goldfish that are in the main goldfish tank.
These tanks are typically 10 to 20 gallons with no gravel substrate or decorations. The filter, usually a sponge filter, should be matured with beneficial bacteria and the heater should be set to a cool 64-67*F. The cooler temperatures help combat goldfish with any fungus and helps avoid any stressful fluctuations in water temperature. The temperature in this quarantine tank might be slightly cooler than the main tank or tank they tank they were bought from so acclimate the goldfish slowly. A plastic plant or a small hiding place can be added to make the quarantined goldfish feel more comfortable. These decorations should be thrown out or sterilized after every sick goldfish that are quarantined in the tank. The quarantine tank should have a hood cover to keep the goldfish from jumping out and to keep the water from evaporating. The hood doesn’t need a light and the outside of two sides and back of the aquarium glass should be covered to make it darker and more comfortable for sick goldfish.
New goldfish should be placed and observed in the quarantine tank for two to four weeks before introducing them into the main goldfish tank. Some serious goldfish owners do this for up to six months to a year. This step can be skipped if the pet or fish store has a policy to quarantine every new fish shipment they receive. Many shops do have this policy but always ask before you buy any new goldfish. Some fish stores might even quarantine your new goldfish at their store for a fee.
Sick goldfish can be placed in quarantine but it is likely that all your goldfish have already been affected by the same illness. More often than not it is easier to treat your sick goldfish in the main tank. A lot of times, treatments involve treating the entire tank anyway. The time to quarantine your sick goldfish into the quarantine tank is when a treatment is harmful to the aquatic plants or other living things in the main tank.
Reviewed By: Tim Winter
Tim Winter has a strong affection for pets and wildlife. His years of experience caring for various types of pets has led him to share his knowledge with others on the best practices in pet care. Tim holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Oregon School of Journalism and Communications.
If you don’t have the possibility to put your goldfishes in a quarantine tank, you can also give a prophylactic broadband medication.