No filter?

[squidbait]

I have done a ton of reading and talking to people about setting up my first reef tank. I am confused on whether to use a wet/dry as well as a protein skimmer, or just go with a skimmer. A guy at the lfs, as well as a book I am reading suggested just going with a skimmer. I do plan on having a limited amount of fish. What do you pros suggest? I am going all out, so money is not a huge factor. I want to do it right. Thanks!

 

[mr . salty]

You will need some kind of mechanical filteration for this tank to remove the larger particals of waste from the water. Plus at least one pound of live rock per gallon of water if you are not planning on any bio filter.

 

[squidbait]

Thanks for the info, I knew that didn't sound right.
How risky is having a sump, as far as it overflowing? I can't imagine how you keep the siphon, and the return equal.
Also, what is caulerpa?
I will probably be asking a million questions in the next few months.

 

[broomer5]

Having a sump is not at all risky as long as the overflow/siphon is capable of handling more water than the return pump can pump back up to the tank.
As long as the overflow/siphon flows more than the pump, you need not worry about it "keeping up" with the pump.
What water pumps up to the tank - equal amount of water will drop back down to the sump.
Brian

 

[squidbait]

Sorry for my ignorance, but if the siphon flows more than the pump back to the tank, won't the sump overflow? I am lost. Please bear (spelling?) with me. Thanks!

 

[mr . salty]

Let's not use the word SYPHON here,it give a false understanding of how this setup actually works.Let's use OVERFLOW instead...The "OVERFLOW" will only drain the tank water as fast as the pump replaces it.

 

[fender]

Salty is right, make sure your sump can handle what will flow from the overflow before it stops.
-An overflow will only pass water until tank water level drops below the slots.

 

[squidbait]

Ahhhhhhhhh. I feel much better now. That really wasn't that dificult! Thanks guys!