Is it necessary to use a Protein skimmer in a marine aquarium?

Answer 1

In a fish only, or fish only with live rock, they aren't necessary, although they do help keep your levels of nitrogenous wastes (ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate) lower. The first two are toxic to aquatic organisms in small amounts, and the last should be kept under 40 ppm (for fish), although lower is better. These come from the wastes of your fish, and decomposition of uneaten food. The nitrogenous wates, along with phosphate promote algae growth, so using one can make a difference in the appearance of your tank and the amount of scaping you need to do.

They aren't 100% necessary for reef tanks either, but the invertebrates are even more sensitive than fish to the nitrogen compounds, so you should do frequent water testing and may need to do more frequent water changes without one.

Some links with info about skimmers: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/proskimrart2.htm
http://www.americanaquariumproducts.com/Aquarium_Filtration.html

Answer 2

None of this is needed on a tank reef or not under 40 gallons. There were no such items when I first began keeping salt water Many years ago. I had a 30 gallon with a HOB filter and that was it. (that same tank is set up the same way with nothing but a HOB) My fish were all fine. The key here is you will have to test the water more often. These items make saltwater keeping Easier. If you are running a very large tank then I would suggest eventually getting atleast a skimmer, however on the smaller tanks they aren't needed. Skimmers are simply to remove organic and inorganic items from the water. Water changes will do that as well. Nope they are not a requirement just nice to have for the ease of caring for the tank.

Answer 3

it is all up to you and what kinda of set up you want. most people dont realize how one works so they question if they need one.

A skimmer work to remove decayed and dead organic material "Dirt" from the water that filter floss or pads don't collect.

By passing a air bubble through the saltwater "dirt" clings to the bubble and rides to the surface.when the bubble hits the surface the water falls leaving the "dirt" on top. do this thousands of times a sec... your white seafoam becomes brown on top. a skimmer removes the brown foam and removes the "dirt" from the tank.
Beware it skimmed matter is horrable to smell.

And that smell use to be in the water.

Answer 4

Yes, it is very necessary to put protein skimmers in a marine aquarium.

CC

Answer 5

I ave a 10 gallon nano without one, but for a larger system, a skimmer would greatly increase the quality of your water. You don't HAVE to have one, but eventually you would want to get one to keep more delicate corals and invertebrates.

Answer 6

i have had a salt water tank for a few years now and it has been successful, so far, am not saying you dont need one, but i have a clear tank and healthy fish without one