Over skimming malarkey

[slayerhellfire]

So I been recently debating with fellow aquarist about the possibility of over skimming a reef tank. I call BS on this, please let me know what you guys think. I have a 75 mixed reef with about 15-20 gallons in my sump and recently upgraded to a reef octopus 225classic which is rated for a heavy stocked 160 gallon tank. I have a ton of coral and 4 fish, snails and a cleaner shrimp. Why wouldn't you go with the biggest skimmer you can get into your sump? You can always tune it down imo.. I am I right or wrong here. I get that your taking out food for your corals but I feed with a variety of coral foods. I would think it would be better to over size your skimmer. Heres what my skimmer specs are-

The Classic 225INT Protein Skimmer by Reef Octopus provides powerful skimming performance in a compact design saving valuable sump space. The Aquatrance 3000s pinwheel pump is housed within the body of the skimmer creating a more compact design.

• Manufacturer rated for aquariums up to 320 gallons
• BRS rated for aquariums up to 220
• In Sump Use Only
• Full seamless cone body design
• Control with "easy to turn" output flow valve
• Quiet operation - oversized air silencer

Well Stocked Tank - Rated up to 150 gallons

Medium Stocked Tank - Rated up to 220 gallons

Light Stocked Tank - Rated up to 320 gallons


Features:

• High quality cast acrylic
• Hybrid Cone Shape with pump built-in
• Bubble Plate - removable and reduces turbulence
• Solid construction
• Easily remove collection cup
• No feed pump required, skimmer draws from sump

Skimmer Specifications:

• Body Size: 8"
• Neck Size: "
• Foot Print: 10.2” x 9.5”
• Total Height: 23.4”
• Output Size: 40mm - comes with metric to standard adapter to 1.25” PVC
• Output Height: 9.1"
• Recommended sump water depth: 8" - 9.5"
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    Aquatrance 3000s Pinwheel Pump Features:
    
    • Pump produces a mix of air and water for optimal waste removal
    • Water Draw: 1400 lph / 370 GPH
    • Air Draw: 720 lph / 25 SCFH
    • Power Consumption: 67 Watts
      *Aquarium set up will determine air and water results.
      

 

[saltyphish]

While I believe it is possible to overskim a tank it all depends on what your nutrient levels are and what your target number is. We all want some nutrients in our tank to feed our coral so if you find you have a problem keeping some detectable levels then maybe you are removing to much from skimming or just feed your tank more. I like to overskim my tank personally.