Debating between this or that, asking for informed input

[MrDJeep123]

My skimmer took a poo, which is unfortunate. A replacement impeller is on the way, which is fortunate. However, I've been toying with the idea of removing it altogether. I don't run it much anyways, overnight typically, certainly not 224/7 like most. I know they aren't required, and I know people that have success with their reef without them. However, my tank is not their tank and mileage varies. For my tank, 40 breeder, it is on the heavy side of stocking with regards to fish. I don't do heavy feedings; small ones through the day. I know that with the removal of the skimmer the tank will become nutrient rich. That could be a good thing. To what extent, I'm not sure. I feel I have a fairly diverse group of clean-up crew. So what is the general consensus on no skimmer? Do you have a reason why I should do either? I'm looking at fielding things that I haven't thought about. I'll make a poll and leave it up for around a week. Thanks for the help in advance!

 

[4FordFamily]

I think they're critical, but especially for high bio loads (inverts, coral, and fish).

 

[MrDJeep123]

I think they're critical, but especially for high bio loads (inverts, coral, and fish).

I think I'm just having a bit of a tank identity crisis.

 

[Shep]

I would get a skimmer, you could get a HoB skimmer or put one in the sump. I think for small tanks (20g and under) a skimmer might not be needed but with a 40g with a moderate to heavy bioload, you would be better off with one.

 

[saltyfilmfolks]

Check out ecosystem method and Planette method. It's a well documented Method. Skimmers are not a nescessity. You need a large fuge. And DSB methods.
As in all things reef go slow. Keep the skimmer in. Slowly increase fuge population. Slowly decrease skimming
It's your tank do what you want.

 

[ritter6788]

I know it can be done without one but I prefer to run a reef tank with one. I'm not big on doing a lot of water changes. Every time I empty my skimmer cup I just think about how all that would still be in the tank with no skimmer.

 

[MrDJeep123]

Check out ecosystem method and Planette method. It's a well documented Method. Skimmers are not a nescessity. You need a large fuge. And DSB methods.
As in all things reef go slow. Keep the skimmer in. Slowly increase fuge population. Slowly decrease skimming
It's your tank do what you want.

I have been reading up on some of those methods. I refresh every so often. I do have a DSB in both the tank and the refugium. I do realize it's my tank. I typically do the opposite of what's suggested anyways. I'm looking at the schools of thought from others mainly.

I know it can be done without one but I prefer to run a reef tank with one. I'm not big on doing a lot of water changes. Every time I empty my skimmer cup I just think about how all that would still be in the tank with no skimmer.

Just think about how much good stuff you are also throwing away, that's my perspective. All that food, gone to waste. Think of all the baby pods that will have no dinner this Chrstimas. Mom Pod and Dad Pod slaving away on the left over fish poop, only for it to be stolen by some thug hermit.

 

[scardall]

I use to have a skimmerless reef for 2 years. i used carbom and Gfo reactors only. I did well to keep my PO4 to .2ppm . Plus I had to be more careful during feeding. I use an old vortex 150 now. good luck deciding. What ever works for you is always best.