Questions about a nano tank

[FishyScientist]

I have been in the hobby for a few years now, but my 55-gallon current tank is an AIO. I am looking at buying a nano tank for my dorm and am wondering a few things. First, does a 13-gallon reef tank need a protein skimmer? Second, could chaeto and a refugium alleviate the need for a protein skimmer? If I add bio media to the filter chamber in addition to the live rock in the tank, could I keep fou small fish and clean up crew in it? Thank you for your answers.

 

[Waters]

I have been in the hobby for a few years now, but my 55-gallon current tank is an AIO. I am looking at buying a nano tank for my dorm and am wondering a few things. First, does a 13-gallon reef tank need a protein skimmer? Second, could chaeto and a refugium alleviate the need for a protein skimmer? If I add bio media to the filter chamber in addition to the live rock in the tank, could I keep fou small fish and clean up crew in it? Thank you for your answers.

No, a 13 gallon doesn't need a skimmer.....or any other form of filtration other than live rock. It is small enough that everything can be controlled with water changes. Regarding keeping fish, it depends on the fish. Yes, you can keep a properly sized CUC.

 

[livinlifeinBKK]

I have been in the hobby for a few years now, but my 55-gallon current tank is an AIO. I am looking at buying a nano tank for my dorm and am wondering a few things. First, does a 13-gallon reef tank need a protein skimmer? Second, could chaeto and a refugium alleviate the need for a protein skimmer? If I add bio media to the filter chamber in addition to the live rock in the tank, could I keep fou small fish and clean up crew in it? Thank you for your answers.

All you need is a HOB filter and honestly the live rock should provide enough biofiltration.

 

[exnisstech]

No tank needs a skimmer. Some folks will argue but the proof is in the pudding.
No skimmer on either of these tanks