Our Quarantine Process

At International Aquatics, we believe that healthy livestock is the foundation of every successful aquarium. That’s why every specimen we sell goes through a thorough, carefully structured quarantine program designed to eliminate parasites, condition the animal, and ensure it is already eating before it ever leaves our facility.

Step 1: Formalin Bath

Each fish begins its journey with a formalin bath to neutralize external parasites and prepare it for entry into our systems. This immediate step helps ensure no unwanted hitchhikers enter our facility.

Step 2: Copper-Treated Quarantine

All livestock is moved into copper-treated quarantine systems for a full 14-day period. Copper levels are maintained at precise therapeutic ranges and are tested multiple times daily to guarantee consistency and effectiveness.

Step 3: Feeding & Conditioning

During quarantine, fish are fed a nutrient-rich diet soaked in Selcon to boost immunity and enhance recovery. Feedings are supplemented with Kanaplex and Metroplex to address bacterial and internal parasites. For grazers, natural algae and nori sheets are also provided. Our goal is to ensure every fish is strong, active, and readily accepting prepared foods before shipping.

Step 4: Ongoing Health Monitoring

Every specimen is observed daily for respiration rate, coloration, posture, and behavior. Freshwater dips may be administered if necessary, and all systems run on UV sterilization and oversized filtration to maintain pristine water quality. Each fish is also filmed during feeding, giving you video proof that your exact animal is eating before it ever ships.

Step 5: Final Clearance

After completing the full 14-day program and passing multiple health checks, livestock is cleared for shipment. At this stage, customers receive confirmation and shipping is arranged to ensure the animal arrives in peak condition.

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A Note on Customer Choice

We take pride in offering one of the most rigorous quarantine programs in the industry. However, we understand that some customers may prefer to receive livestock without going through our quarantine process—for example, if they are running their own QT systems or have unique requirements. If you would like to purchase a specimen without quarantine, please contact us directly to make arrangements.