Suitable QT tank

[kreblak]

My LFS has a self contained 1 gallon tank, with everything it needs for operation in one base unit. I had the fleeting thought that this might be a decent QT tank. Am I kidding myself? Can a 1 gallon possibly be run in SW?

 

[VoodooChild]

That's miiiiighty small. The ammonia spike right off the bat would probably kill any fish. Not to mention you'd have to do two water changes daily and that's not enough room for just about any fish I can think of. I've heard 5 gallons can be done, but 10 seems to be the minimum QT size.

 

[kreblak]

Yeah, that's what I thought. I guess it would just be convienent to have such a small, self contained, tank.

 

[OrionGirl]

If you can dedicate the time to maintenance, one gallon will work for smaller fish, but I wouldn't trust it. We keep empty tanks around, usually 10-29 gallons. When needed, we fill it with 50% new, 50% water from the tank, add a small heater, chunk of rock, and powerhead for water movement. It's very easy, doesn't require dedicated space, and we don't have to worry about it when not in use. I go with the smallest tank that would comfortable hold your largest fish for at least 2 weeks. That way, if you have to treat a smaller fish, you can just partially fill the tank, but still have room for the bigger kids.