Skimmers?

[angelfishgirl]

I found a Coralife BioCube Protein Skimmer, but I don't have a biocube, it's got suction cups on the back, but the wording confused me, I'll put the link at the end of the post. I just want to know if it is a protein skimmer I can use on a normal aquarium.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00C2...-2&pi=SY200_QL40#immersive-view_1406817960888

The link below is also a skimmer I'm looking at, give me opinions on which I should get for my 40 gallon!! Thank you!

Lee's Protein Skimmer Counter Current, Medium:Amazonet Supplies

 

[Reefing Madness]

For a 40g tank, I'd not go with either one of those skimmers, they would be of no help to your tank. Im guessing your looking for a hang on skimmer
Reef Octopus BH100 Hang-on-the-Back Protein Skimmer - Bulk Reef Supply
Skimz Monzter SH2 Hang On External Skimmer - Bulk Reef Supply

 

[angelfishgirl]

What about a CPR Aquatics BAK-PAK 2 Protein Skimmer w/ Bio Bale Filter or a Red Sea Berlin Protein Skimmer with Pump for up to 250 gph??

 

[Saddam]

Hi am new to this hobby!! and my only question regarding the skimmers with the Micro bubbles as I keep reading!! without the science words, is it bad or not for the fish or corals !! I don't know what is the meaning of water break also I have on the out pump a sponge filter which is not the case coz its not helping in reducing or eliminating the bubbles!! is it leaks might came from the connection or the skimmer brand is bad as I don't remember at this time the name of the brand!! Thanks

 

[pickupman66]

To the op... I'll agree with reefing madness post on the reef octopus skimmer. The bak-pak ones don't do a very good job and are hard to adjust. Spend some money here. It will be worth it.

Saddam, microbial won't hurt fish. They will however cause poor polyp extension.

 

[mcarroll]

The AquaC Remora is a pretty common hang-on skimmer to find on the used equipment forum (here and elsewhere!) for under $100. This would be a better bet as it's a solid performer, very flexible, easy to clean and CHEAP.

Or consider alternatives to a skimmer if cost is prohibitive for now:
-Lower stocking levels will eliminate the need for a skimmer and make just about everything to do with keeping the tank easier and cheaper.
-An algae scrubber can be really cheap to make.
-Also consider that a skimmer is not magic....all it can really do for you is extend the time between normal maintenance: water changes, detritus removal, filter maintenance, etc. You can run a system without a skimmer.

-Matt

 

[angelfishgirl]

Thanks so much Matt!! Really helpful information, the girl I got the tank from had it set up for salt water an didn't have it, but I just want to be super sure nothing bad happens I had thought about setting it up then getting it, but I decided patience was a better option, but thanks so much!