Protein skimmer/Powerhead ?'s

[fishowner]

alright im new to the whole powerhead thing and im somewhat confused as to how to go about setting up my tank. someone recommended that i use a powerhead with a protein skimmer in addition to the HOB filter i already have. Sooo
1. would i need to use an air pump as well?
a. if so would i just be able to connect the airline from the pump to the powerhead?
2. or would the bubbles created by the powerhead and skimmer be enough to oxygenate the water?

 

[wfd1008]

both powerheads and a skimmer would benefit the tank. power heads circulate the water so there aren't "dead zones" where the water stagnates, like behind your rock work. skimmers remove organic material in the water. i would say that a skimmer is needed in every tank. it's amazing how much gunk they remove. as far as an air pump goes, i've got them in my tanks, but i don't think they are needed cause the skimmer adds plenty of air into the tank.