Sump/Fuge Question...

In your opinion...at what size aquarium would a fuge/sump be mandatory?

I'm just inquiring because I know they are beneficial for all sizes of aquariums...but is there ever a point where it's just mandatory?

Thanks!

 

I don't think it's ever mandatory, you just get a lot of benefits from running one. Personally I would never run a tank without a sump if it wasn't one of the all in one units, just because of aesthetics, getting all the equipment out of the tank is #1 priority for me. All the other benefits of a sump, added water volume more space for equipment etc are all very desirable IMO.

More info on sumps for ya if you're interested:
Melevsreef.com - What is a Sump?

 

I'd say above a 29 gallon. The only reason, though, is because that's when *I* started using one.

 

IMO its the other way around. Tanks over 30 gallons have enough water volume in them on there own to be stable. Tanks under 30 gallons should have a sump with enough volume to bring system volume up to at least 30 gallons.

5 gallon reefs look amazing and if you can employ a well hidden 30g sump you have something stable and easy to maintain.

Beyond that there really is no need for a sump on larger tanks. The main reason to use one is to get equipment out of view.