Do I Need A Protein Skimmer?

Thanks to all of your replies! I have a 29 gallon standard tank and was thinking about getting a few softees, not too many though: Maybe 2-3.

 

No you do not need a skimmer for that size tank, just do routine water changes.

If you decide to go with stony corals or have a large bio-load with fish and feed frequently then yes a skimmer would be a great idea.

Skimmers are wonderful, but not a must have in smaller tanks with less sensitive corals.

The coral in my avatar on a 28 gallon tank does not have a skimmer, but I have a low bio-load and some experience.

 

How often would i need to change my water with a few kenyan trees or nuclear green palys and about 2 fish?

 

There is no set time like X size tank needs Y size water change every Z days. There are so many variables that go into it that it cant be easily explained. Experience and water testing will give you a feel for your tank as you progress into the hobby. I have learned with my tank I do about 5 gallons every 3 weeks or so and everything stays happy & water params stay normal, but again that is just my tanks.

 

i was just looking at the AquaticLife Internal Mini Skimmer 115, since I have a 29 gallon tank. I don't have much money, me being in high school, so I was wondering if this would be alright?

 

I acquired that same skimmer when I bought a 29 gallon set up. I have it on a 14 gallon and it produces some skimmate, but nothing significant. I wouldn't recommend it and I would save for something better. Just keep up with water changes and you should be fine.

 

Incidentally, I got amazing skimmate and years of good use out of a Tunze 9002. Best little skimmer I ever owned. No idea how good they are on price these days, but the thing works.

 

Everyone starts off small but the urge to put more in the tank once what you have gets going soon grabs hold (adding that flame angel couldn't hurt, my tank parameters have been perfect for 2 months)... If you can afford it, definitely do it. Always go a little extra up front to cover things in the future...

 

Also you can get some great deals on eBay! I just got my hydor slim skim normally 135 for 43 plus shipping and it was only 6 months old

 

If you are going to go with a skimmer IME the Tunze 9002 is the best for that size of tank.