cleaning out the tank after ick problem

Question
Hello we recently spoke about the ick problem i had this is a update and a question aswell.
they have all died i just caught them at the stage that was to late. Its a right kick in the teeth.
How Do You Recommend i clean out the aquarium and filteration system so i can start all over again.
Thank You for all your help.

Answer
Hi Thomas,
  In that situation, here is what I do.  Anything which is glass or plastic (including the tank itself) gets a wash with chlorine bleach, about a tablespoon per gallon strength. Then wash those things with LOTS of clean water.   Then let them dry for a week, rinse again and you are good to go. Things like plants, gravel and filters are much tougher because of their porous surfaces. I would throw out the gravel or at least not use it for a long, long time (months).  Plastic plants can get the quick dip in bleach.  Live plants are really problematic because disease spores can live on them for a long time.  One approach would be to put them in a small tank or bucket and treat it for ick for a week; that should kill all the spores/cysts.  I would throw out any filter pads or other disposable media and clean the plastic parts with bleach.

-- Ron
  rcoleman@cichlidresearch.com
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