Another Equipment Question

[mallery8p]

I very had my tank up and running good for a little over a month (35gal) hex. It is fowlr and plan on eventually do some corals but not anytime soon. What is everyone's thoughts on a protein skimmer. Do I need one now in a tank that small or should I wait til I'm ready for coral. I'm sure everyone has a different opinion, but I would like to know from experienced tanker rather than petco.

 

[Mike J.]

There are several factors to consider. What is you bioload - what fish do you have? Do you use any methods of nitrate reduction? Any mechanical or chemical filtration? What is your nitrate level? With regular water changes and a light bioload you can get by without a protein skimmer. This answer is coming from a reefer who thinks a protein skimmer is a necessary piece of equipment.

 

[mallery8p]

I do about 25% water changes a week, right now on have 2 fire fish, 1 clown fish and a long spine urchin, plus clean up crew. I'm just using a regular hang on filter. All parameters staying were they need to be with no movement

 

[Mike J.]

Needed that extra info, thanks. In your case I don't believe a skimmer is a necessity.

 

[mallery8p]

I do plan on getting a diamond goby this weekend and maybe one more fish

 

[Mike J.]

A general rule is 1 inch of fish per 5 gallons of water. When you go over this a skimmer becomes more of a necessity. Your 25% water changes are aggressive though and still would probably be all you need.

 

[mallery8p]

Is 25% to much

 

[Mike J.]

It's not too much, but might be excessively expensive. I can only answer that question if I knew your nitrate/phosphate parameters. But, if nitrates are not high, 5 gallons a week for your size tank would be sufficient.

 

[mallery8p]

Well with all the rock and sand there a little other 20 gall of water, I've been doing 5 gallons a week. Only cost me a little over $4 for 5 gallons of saltwater from the lfs.

 

[mallery8p]

Nitrates are at 0, don't have phosphate test

 

[Mike J.]

Very good.

 

[Dustinba]

Just buy one. You will be happy you did

 

[mallery8p]

The main reason I'm asking is because my tank not that big and I would like to put as little as possible on the sides cause that's all you'll see is equipment