Do I need a skimmer in fish only

Discussion in 'Protein Skimmers' started by godinuser, Apr 30, 2009.

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  1. godinuser

    godinuser Plankton

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    I prefer a simpler approach, I run an Eheim pro, jager heater, basic "cf" light. I want to keep two tomato clowns in a 30 gallon cube (very nice). Must I get a skimmer - if not what do I need?

    Any help, much appreciated.

    *I am not a newbie, I have kept many tanks for over twenty years, feel free to talk tech and water chemistry.

    :cheesy:
     
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  3. 10acrewoods

    10acrewoods Fire Goby

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    i would use a skimmer in any situation
     
  4. GuitarMan89

    GuitarMan89 Giant Squid

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    In the salt water hobby, a skimmer is one of the most important, if not the most important piece of equipment you can have. It helps to maintain excellent water quality and provide fish a healthy environment so as to keep disease at bay. I would recommend one for any salt water tank. However, if you keep up on your water changes you can get away without having one. However, over time your DOC will build up which can lead to nuisance algae blooms, bacteria blooms and overall poor water quality.
     
  5. godinuser

    godinuser Plankton

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    Thanks for the info - are TUNZE the best bang for the buck? Are they suitable for non-sump/smaller application?
     
  6. coldshot

    coldshot Blue Ringed Angel

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    For that size tank I would reccomend the Coralife 65 super skimmer. It is hard to get adjusted but is an amazing skimmer for an HOB (hob=hang on back)
     
  7. coldshot

    coldshot Blue Ringed Angel

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    well worth the bux
     
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  9. PackLeader

    PackLeader Giant Squid

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    +1 to both!

    I would recommend an Octopus or Remora
     
  10. steve wright

    steve wright Super Moderator

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    +1 on Guitarman - My Deltec is a piece of equipment that I say "Thank you" to on a weekly basis - it does a great job and I need it to know this

    but on a FOWLR with a low bio load and regular water changes, parameter testing, its not 100% required IMO - if you are only going to keep those 2 clowns , and can keep on top of your water quality (run carbon is good idea) then you can avoid adding one

    but if you want to add some corals and maybe another fish - I would say buy the skimmer and take advantage of the benefits it offers

    Steve
     
  11. godinuser

    godinuser Plankton

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    great help, thanks
     
  12. tronb24

    tronb24 Coral Banded Shrimp

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    I've tried a Coralife 65 Superskimmer on a 30 gallon - Didn't like it. It may be personal preference, but it's just too big of a eyesore for such a small tank.

    Switch to a AquaC Remora - Love it. I highly recommend this skimmer.