H.O. protein skimmers for saltwater aquariums?

Question

what hang on protein skimmer is the best for a 45 gal saltwater aquarium that is less than $200 and that will last a long time......thanks!!!

Answer 1

I personally like the Red Sea line. How well a protein skimmer works is related to the height of the water in the tube - taller skimmers give the water (and stuff in it) a longer contact time with the bubbles, so more gunk is removed. Of the two types (venturi and airstone), I like the venturi. Wooden airstones may provide smaller bubbles (better), but you need to replace these too often. In the venturi, you just need to clear the airline that provides the air occasionally.

Here are a few links that talk about skimmers, their differences, and pros/cons of each type: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/proskimrart2.htm , http://www.wetwebmedia.com/ca/cav1i1/protein_skimmer_impressions.htm

Answer 2

A good skimmer = money. Sad, but true. Spend as much as possible. Check out online shopping, Amazon, eBay, etc. Good skimmers are NOT cheap. Personal preference, look for a venturi skimmer.

Answer 3

a coralife super skimmer, mine is in my sump, but they can be used as a hang on back. i love mine and alot of people seem to like them as well. the bak-paks are ok, but i think mycoralife was cheaper, and it skims more. never had a prizm but ive heard only a few good things and alot of bad about them

trust me there are skimmers for a 10g tank up to a few hundred and many in between, and saltwater is not much more work than fresh

Answer 4

fans are a requirement. But for a fish only tank with no live rock to grow coralline algae on or anything else that depends on strong light then you really don't need as much light and could cut some off. Fans are still your best option though.

Answer 5

scrap a saltwater to much money and work cause there is none for under 200 lol get a freshwater tank and get some color fish it will seam like a salt water less work lol