Protien Skimmers (answer fast urgent)

[FlipIconic010]

OK i really need help on this one

I finally started my salt water tank its a 55 gallon high, so i was wondering do i need to get a protien skimmer if i already have a flewvalve404 (cannister filter) that can support up to a 200gal tank and i also have a fluid bed filter to help maintain bacteria better... so would i need a protien skimmer if i hav these to main filters???

 

[DeLgAdO]

OK i really need help on this one

I finally started my salt water tank its a 55 gallon high, so i was wondering do i need to get a protien skimmer if i already have a flewvalve404 (cannister filter) that can support up to a 200gal tank and i also have a fluid bed filter to help maintain bacteria better... so would i need a protien skimmer if i hav these to main filters???

you dont really need one

but they sure as hell do help with the water quality

see filteration breaks down organics by converting them into something less toxic.

but a protein skimmer physically removes them from the system.

taking the burdon off your filteration and tank inhabitants

id get one

 

[Taboojen]

OK i really need help on this one

I finally started my salt water tank its a 55 gallon high, so i was wondering do i need to get a protien skimmer if i already have a flewvalve404 (cannister filter) that can support up to a 200gal tank and i also have a fluid bed filter to help maintain bacteria better... so would i need a protien skimmer if i hav these to main filters???

Usually for salt water, it is recommended that a protein skimmer be used, as it can efficiently remove the organic matter before it breaks down into ammonia, nirates, etc. However, i honestly think its just how often you are able to change your water. Im sure there are salt water tanks out there that don't run a protein skimmer... but i'm sure the owners have to do larger water changes every few days, as compared to the normally weekly one.

I have a 55 salt water tank at home- which I only use live rock and a hang-on-back skimmer as my primary filtration. Its worked out great for me. I've had this set up for about 5-6 years now.

 

[Miles]

Think about Aquarium Evolution..

Before Skimmers - SW Tanks were 'Hard'
After Skimmers - SW Tanks are 'Easy'

You make the decision!

 

[jschulst]

Protien skimmers are the solution to keeping saltwater fish.

After the release of "finding Nemo", the demand of these fish went up. I spoke to a guy who's kids pressured him to get a clownfish. They didn't last, and the pet store guy said it is one of the most common mistake why many saltwater hobbyist fail...no protien skimmers, and second, it's tougher to get the saltwater setup cycled.