New QT setup questions

[the_cros]

I am setting up my first QT tank and have a few questions.

Setup Background:
- 29g tank, light, heater, air stone
- HOB filter/mini skimmer (DT seeded seachem matrix)

When it’s an Observation QT:
- I am doing automatic water changes from my DT into the new QT @ 2g per day (and 2g out).

When it’s a Medication QT:
- I will pause my auto water changes into QT.

Questions:
- What do people do for an ammonia source when the QT is empty?
- Should I move the matrix back to my DT sump when the QT is empty? Or will DT water help keep the bacteria going?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Idoc]

Many do it, but I'm just not a fan of using water from a DT in an observation/quarantine tank. During this time period, I like the cleanest water possible. I understand why others do it, though....the fish are going to eventually go into that DT anyhow!

As an ammonia source, I usually just drop a pinch of pellet food in the quarantine tank occasionally when not in use. But honestly, I almost always break my quarantine tanks down after each use and setup again a few days before acquiring a new fish. I use bottled bacteria a little each day for the first week and have never had an issue with ammonia in my quarantine tanks.

As for the matrix...I would never move anything from a quarantine tank over into a DT.

 

[the_cros]

Thank for the reply and additional insight.

 

[Uncle99]

I have never cycled my QT, fish don’t stay long in my QT maybe 15-21 days, I simply do a daily water change and vacuum up any uneaten food.

 

[the_cros]

I have never cycled my QT, fish don’t stay long in my QT maybe 15-21 days, I simply do a daily water change and vacuum up any uneaten food.

How much water to you change each day?

 

[Uncle99]

Say 10%.
I also use an ammo badge to keep a close watch on ammonia.