Koi Holding Tanks
Holding tanks, also known as quarantine tanks, are used to keep fish outside of their pond for a brief period of time. When done properly, using holding tanks can make a massive difference in the overall health of your tank and help prevent the spread of disease or increased stress.
Let’s look at the how, why, and when of koi holding tanks and how to properly set up and maintain one!
Why Do You Need a Holding Tank?
Holding tanks can be an amazing asset to have at the ready whether you are just starting out your tank or are a seasoned koi keeping veteran. Regardless of your level of experience holding tanks will help keep everything running smoothly and prevent the introduction of illnesses, parasites, chemicals, and stress into your pond that could prove problematic for your existing fish.
When you are introducing koi into your pond, is important to quarantine them for a period of time to ensure they do not have any illnesses, parasites, or infections that could potentially spread to the other fish in your pond. Things like fin rot, parasitic worms and mites, and a host of other nasty issues could be hiding out, so quarantining your fish for a few weeks will help you check them out and make sure they are all healthy.
Quarantining new fish also helps prevent excessive stress, as they get a chance to calm down before being put into their new pond. Being moved from a petstore or supplier to your home can be a rather traumatic experience with a lot of changing so this destress period is great for all new fish coming into your enclosure.
For existing fish, holding tanks can be helpful if they suddenly seem sick or injured. It is also good if you believe your fish have been exposed to chemical additives in their water, as you can remove them until everything is filtered out and safe again.
Additionally, there are also koi transport tanks or portable koi holding tanks available that make moving koi from one place to another or breeding koi quite easy, especially if you are making a longer journey or moving larger fish! These portable koi tanks are vital in ensuring your pets get moved safely if they are above bagging size, as well.
Koi Quarantine Procedure
If you are going to quarantine your koi, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, you should ensure that the enclosure is large enough for the number of koi being monitored. Just because the enclosure is temporary does not mean it can cut corners on size and safety; we are trying to avoid stress with this method, not create a tight, scary space.
You also should find a lid or netting for the enclosure. Many people recommend using kiddie pools or plastic tubs so something that will cover the top completely while still allowing airflow will work like a charm. When koi are disoriented, they are prone to jumping and the last thing you want is for your fish to flop out of their tank.
Optimal water quality is key in successfully quarantining your fish. Be sure to have a good quality biological filter on hand and a heater if necessary to keep the water clear, warm, and comfortable. Good water equals less stress!
If you are introducing medications for your fish, you should have them on hand, as well, and understand what dosage you should use for the volume of water your fish are being housed in. Follow all directions closely and make sure they are appropriate for the size of your fish.
Good water equals less stress!
Post-Quarantine
After the holding period is over, you can introduce your fish into your enclosure if all has gone well. Follow basic introduction procedure and ensure they are safe through the entire process.
Conclusion
Holding tanks are great for koi fish old and new, especially if they appear sick, injured, or are new to the enclosure. Keep one at the ready in case of emergencies or when you need to transport your fish and you are all set!
