Is a protean skimmer really need for a 100gallon saltwater tank?

Question

I am starting a 100 gallon saltwater fish only tank and was wandering if I should purchase a protean skimmer, because i have had petstore owners tell me that they are not needed. What is your opinion on the equipment that i need for a saltwater 100 gallon fish only tank. give me a list of good equipment. Thanks

Answer 1

For fish only, they aren't 100% required, but will help you with water quality in the long run. What these do is remove dissolved organics and small particles from the water that would otherwise contribute to your nitrates. You can see for yourself what the "gunk" that's removed looks like: http://www.reeffrontiers.com/photos_members/data/500/314MazzeiSkimmerTestRun.JPG

Another deciding factor is if your water testing results show elevated nitrates consistently, or you begin to have algae problems with your tank - the nitrates that the skimmer removes contributes to algae growth as a "fertilizer".

Since it' isn't necessary for your everyday operation, especially if you're just setting up the tank, you can hold off on purchasing one, and just do regular water changes. I would suggest, however, that you find someone who uses one (even if it's your pet store) and take a look at what it can remove from what looks like otherwise clean water and think if you'd want to have that back in your tank.

Answer 2

yes a protein skimmer is required, especially for larger fish tangs, triggers, puffer, ect poop alot and a skimmer is the only way to keep nitrates down. the only tanks i would say a skimmer is not needed are very small nano aqauriums with no fish and biweekly coral feedings, at which a good refigium and 10-15% weekly water changes are enough. the coiralife super skimmer is a good model, try the 125, i use a 65 but have a smaller tank

Answer 3

I found myself asking this question a few weeks ago, and from experience, here's my answer. YES. I was running a proclear 125 wet/dry, and after a few weeks, it began to get dirty fast. The day after I installed my Instant Ocean 150 series protein skimmer, it cleaned out the water significantly and filled the canister nearly 1/2 way. And the firsh you have depend on it alot, Tangs and other large fish are messy, and almost require a protein skimmer.