How to set up a hospital tank?

[miko]

What is the best way to set up the hospital tank?

I have a spare tank which I have tried to set up as my treatment tank but hasn't worked so well. Should I strip it bare of all gravel etc?

What is the best filter for these treatment tanks?

Should it be kept empty and use water from the main tank to fill it or should it have fresh water (obviously treated)?

:confused:

[joz]

Imo.srtip it bare.It should have nothing but a heater and filter(mature)
I used to use sponge filters that were air driven, no turbulance just gentle bubbling.

Using water from the main tank would stop any shock associated with acclimatisation.
But perhaps the best cleanest water my be more desirable depending on the fishes needs.

[Dan]

Yes, strip the gravel from the tank, it will be easier to clean then. You might also want to paint the bottom of the tank black to calm the fish(on the outside). It should only have heater/thermostat, thermometer, filtration with a gentle flow(matured) and maybe subdued lighting. Place the tank in a quiet spot. Best to transfer water from the original tank so the fish won't get stressed by the different chemistry or temperature.