Protein Skimmer

[hudaisy]

Hi all. Once again, I have a newbie question. What is a protein skimmer, do I already have one and if not, do I need to get one. I have a 12G Nanocube. I am going today to buy test kits and shrimp (dead--to start cycling). I am also thinking that I should get the live rock today, too, just to speed up the cycling. Any other suggestions? :notsure:

 

[airforceb2]

A protein skimmer is something that uses microbubbles to remove toxins from the water. You may not need one if you have ample LR in your tank. I would get 20lbs of Lr and a nice powerhead and you should be good.

 

[db]

You have the right idea as far as get the cycling going. A Protein skimmer will extract waste and other organics from you water column. It pulls these wastes out by creating a foam that expells the waste into a cup at the top of the skimmer. I believe these are necessary to run a successful reef. You may be able to get away with out one in a nano cube, but you would need to do more frequent water changes. Oh yeah, no you don't have one.

 

[hudaisy]

What exactly is a reef tank? I am not up for purchasing more stuff right now. I have just dumped $250 into the tank and don't even have any fish. If I can get away without one by only having fish and no live rock, then I will.

 

[thangbom]

reef tank is a tank with live rock and u kinda "plant' corals in it...
but this protein skimmer thing... i think for that size tank... u really dont need one.. just do a 15% water change weekly.. and you should be fine... (i say this to anyone that has a 20gal and under .. i mean 15% of 20 gal isnt much work and is'nt hard..)

 

[feixjai]

a reef tank is a tank with many corals and other inverts like anemone. but have less fish.

 

[airforceb2]

You don't need "many" corals for a reef. A reef tank contains things that you would find on a reef. A coral or a anemone will justify a reef tank. $250 is CHEAP

 

[airforceb2]

Plan on paying a lot more once you get fish. Also, use RO water so you don't chance getting algae blooms.

 

[hudaisy]

What do you mean paying a lot more? I was thinking two clowns and anenome. That should be about another $50 or so my lfs told me. Since I only have a 12G tank, I can't imagine I could put more in there. Maybe one more fish (I was thinking a blue damsel) at best. I am going today to get water. Does anyone have suggestions on a specific type? I have already used tap water (with conditioner) but, I have take some out 'cause it's too salty. Thus, I thought I would refill with the "right" kind of water.

I love the banana.

 

[airforceb2]

Use RO/DI water. You can get it from a LFS or walmart. As for the anemone...that will cost you a lot more. You will need to upgrade your lights ($200-$250) for the minimum required lighting. Not to mention you will need a mature tank and perfect water conditions (at least 6 monts old).
DO NOT get a damsel. It will pester everything in your tank.
How "salty" was your water?