Filter?

So well, do you actually need a sump and protein skimmer? what about a hang over the back filter?

 

You can have a hang over the back Skimmer. but there is little need for a filter

J

 

What size tank do you have? I say no on the sump but it is beneficial and I say a skimmer is a must have. Also what kind of HOB filter?

 

You do not ~need~ a sump but it makes your life easier down the road and removes a lot of hardware from your tank. It also increase water volume.

 

Not to mention at some point you will probably want to add a refugium/sump - might as well start with one to begin with or a sump you can change into a refugium at some point!

 

.....and IMO, more importantly, the sump increases surface area for gas exchange. How big is your tank?

 

I would say you probably dont need a sump or filter. I do not have a sump, and I dont really have any problems. I do run a filter though. I like my carbon 24/7 I will say I had a heck of a time keeping control of my tank without a good skimmer. A good skimmer is a MUST in my opinion

 

And while PL has a good point about the necessity of a protein skimmer, I would say that you could probably get away without one under 20g if you didn't keep challanging LPS or any SPS.

 

you don't need one,its just better.a wk after adding my sump my test readings were undenyable

 

I have both one tank with sump and small tank with canister. I think both work great but you definatly need a skimmer. I ran with out one for 4 weeks and then the algae blooms hit and drove me nuts after some reasearch got a good skimmer and made my life all the better. With a added bonus I have all the nasty mung to freak out my daughter.