If chaeto remove nitrates/phosphates, why we need a skimmer?

[BurgerFish]

I have a skimmer and fuge full of chaeto. Nitrates at 0, I need to dose it.

So, if chaeto do the job is there any need to keep the skimmer? Is there anyone who tested his tank with and without the skimmer?

Pros to remove a skimmer:
Less noise
More food for the filter feeders
Less pH drop at night

Cons:
Less oxygenation

 

[DarthChaos]

I use my refugium.....as a nutrient balancer.

If nutrients are high - light stays on 24/7 (it's BS - that chaeto needs a dark period. Chaeto will 100% grow & grow exceptionally well). If nutrients are low - I put on a timer (usually 12/12).

If nutrients are super low - just run your grow light 6hrs.

If that still doesn't work - put the skimmer on a timer. I always giggle when I read people "need" to dose nutrients. 9.9/10 - no, you don't. You just need to adjust your system....to simply export less. There's a lot of ways...to "dirty up" the water

 

[BurgerFish]

If nutrients are high - light stays on 24/7 (it's BS - that chaeto needs a dark period. Chaeto will 100% grow & grow exceptionally well). If nutrients are low - I put on a timer (usually 12/12).

Ill do that when Ill receive my ION Director and able to monitor nitrates 24/7.

 

[Reef and Dive]

I agree a skimmer is not a must have. That said, I believe a skimmer is not really aimed to remove nitrates. It actually creates a suspension and remove cells, particles, many components that usually accumulate. EG dosing carbon creates excess bacteria that is removed, diatoms are removed etc. I believe it helps a lot.

I have a nano without skimmer.

I have a display with skimmer, chaeto, carbon dosing, activated carbon, zeolites, GFO, frequent WC and frequent manual cleaning.

The display is much better suited for demanding corals in terms of nutrient control.