Filtration Discussion

I used to have a small canister filter on my 10g tank. I had cyano issues so I figured maybe my filter had something to do with it. I removed the filter and now, get this, I am just skimming the tank. I don't have a filter of any kind other than the tank its self and a skimmer. My issues with cyano are disappearing(not suggesting that it fixed my cyano but perhaps my filter system had something to do with it). I also have my home made hang on refugium with some chaeto in it.

Also, I know everyone can't do this but instead of testing my water all of the time I do regular weekly 2 gallon water changes with freshly mixed(let mix for 2 days before adding) water.

Aside from that my skimmer is a bit over kill for my tank given that it is rated for up to 180 gallons... and I have it on a 10g... ;D See the pic I attached to chuckle a bit... but the thing does amazing now that it is all broke in. (older pic and things have changed on, and in, the tank since then but the skimmer is in the same spot)

That skimmer and two powerheads and a heater with my lights... I like to keep it simple and I know others might think I'm crazy but on such a small tank I think that's all I really need... anyone have other thoughts or concerns or ideas?

I am curious if less is more? In my case probably but I can't see people with larger tanks doing a 20% water change every week... well with the displacement of my rocks and such I probably have right around 6.5-7 gallons of water max... so I figure 2-3 gallon change is pretty hefty. I do it to keep my parameters in check easily. I could push it to two weeks but then my nitrates start building up really slow and I don't like them at all... LOL

 

It all depends on your load and how much you feed. Few or no fish and you could probably do without the skimmer too.

My 30 gallon isn't even running a skimmer, just a sump and pump circulating. But I only have 2 seahorses and coral. 4-5 gal weekly change.

 

Nice, I want a fuge but just can't work it out right because I don't have the space for one... Well not very easily... Lol.

 

also, the tank is only a few month old correct?

 

Actually yes it is. Also no fish, just coral and inverts.