Filter question

[ca_carson31]

I need some advice.....I am a beginner here and was wondering if anyone can lend me their expertise on filters.....I have heard conflicting information on this......I have a 55 gal tank and I want to do a FOWLRLS. I have heard that if I use the suggested amount to LR and LS (about 1.5lbs per gal of water) that I should not need to have a filter......BUT I have also heard that I would still need a filter.....Can some one please help me with this confusion?
Thanks
Chris

 

[aarone]

Most people with that much LR and LS, use powerfilters and/or canister filters, to filter out the gunk n the water, floating poop, and food, and other debris. I run a powerfilter (hang on) With activated carbon to keep the water crystal clear. It works great, not sure if it does anything for the biological activity. But it works great

 

[ca_carson31]

so does that basically do the same thing as a protien skimmer?

 

[david s]

If you have a good amount of live rock that is your filter do a deep sand bed and get a good skimmer and you will be all set
you can also ask in the agresive foram what some of those guys run they have fo and fowlr with some big fish

 

[ca_carson31]

when you say a good sand bed......3"- 5" is that good enough?
what skimmers would you suggest?

 

[david s]

If you have the doe I would go with a my reef mr1 If not another good skimmer for the doe is a berlin turbo
the mr1 is a becket skimmer and needs a biger pumpwich equals a little more heat but it is definetly worth it for the skimmer power
the berlin is a venturie skimmer smaller pump but is very efficent smaller waste cup that sits ontop and has to be cleaned out regularly

 

[ca_carson31]

Thanks for the help.......I appreciate any that is given!!!!! Cant wait to get my equipment and start setting up my tank!!!!!
Thanks for the Help
Chris

 

[aarone]

i use a berlin classic 60 intank skimmer, it works great. I had a 55 but now i have a 29 and it works even better.