Skimmer running during cycle?

Pretty self explanatory. Just want to know if I should be running my protein skimmer during the initial cycling period?

Thoughts?

 

I would say no.

 

No need really, but I would turn it on when my cycle is nearing the end (~2-3 days) to break it in so that it's ready and you aren't having to play around with it too much when your bioload increases.

 

+1 above

 

Running a skimmer during the cycle is counter productive.

During the cycle, you want organic matter to break down to NH3 which fuels the population growth of beneficial bacteria. The "cycle" is complete when your tank can convert uneaten food and fish waste back to N2 gas. Food/poop/NH3,NO2−/NO3-/N2.

For the rest of your tanks life, your goal is to minimize organic waste and maintain a stable ecosystem. In comes your skimmer, which is good for about 30% removal of small particles and dissolved organics.

 

Great insight! Thank you all for the help!