Purpose of a Protein Skimmer?

[paulcoates]

I am new to the hobby...What is the purpose of the skimmer? When should I buy one? Are they needed for a certain type of fish, anemone, or coral?

 

[iggyframe]

The skimmer removes all the fish waste and other impurities from the water. I highly recomend buying one when you buy/setup your aquarium. I belive that they are needed for all SW fish. I dont have coral or anemone's. Hope that this helps