Fish and coral quarantine checklist for Florida reef owners.
Use this checklist to stage quarantine supplies, treatments, and test kits before new fish or coral arrives. A proper QT prevents disease from spreading to the display tank.
Find reef maintenance near TampaQuarantine protocol
QT is the single highest-leverage investment for a Florida reef system. One skipped observation cycle can wipe a display tank worth thousands of dollars.
Set up a bare-bottom QT before livestock arrives
Use a separate tank with heater, air pump, sponge filter, and lid before adding new fish or coral to the display.
Source treatments and test kits before you need them
Have copper, praziquantel, methylene blue, coral dip supplies, ammonia test kits, and hydrometer on hand before the livestock ships.
Observe for a full cycle, not a week
Most pathogens take 4–8 weeks to express in fish; reef pests and parasites on coral need at least 4 weeks in a frag QT without fish.
Have an escalation plan
If disease progresses faster than treatment, contact a local reef service provider before the main display tank is exposed.
Quarantine supply options
Compare reef-specialty and general retailers for QT essentials. Confirm prices and availability directly before purchasing.
QT tank, heater, air pump, and sponge filter
Copper, praziquantel, methylene blue, and coral dip
Affiliate disclosure
Retailer links may be direct or affiliate links depending on current program status. We may earn a commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you. ReefLocal Florida does not display merchant prices or product availability — confirm directly before purchasing.