Filteration For Small Tank?

[Ripley]

I was wondering is there a tank size that you would not have to use a skimmer in? If so, what other precautions should be taken? More frequent water changes?

 

[Justin1989]

There is no size that I know of. The skimmer is basically a filter; however under a different concept. You do not always need a skimmer, however yes more water changes. Skimmers are highly recommended for salt water tanks.

 

[ben1987]

there is no sized tank you NEED a skimmer on.

You will have to stock a lot lighter and wont be able to obtain the water quality required for some difficult corals ithout one though. They are well worth the money.

 

[omega59]

i have a 30gal with 2 clowns and LR, heater, powerheads, filter.. i never had a skimmer, i also do once a month water changes no problems yet have arrived.

 

[ben1987]

i have a 30gal with 2 clowns and LR, heater, powerheads, filter.. i never had a skimmer, i also do once a month water changes no problems yet have arrived.

2 clowns in a 30 gallon tank is a light stocking. Leathers arent exactly picky either. So long as you keep ontop of your maintaninace you probably wont ever have a problem.

 

[Ripley]

Thanks for the info. Wow, I figured you would have to do more then one water change per month.

 

[xxBarneyxx]

Personally for smaller tanks (say under 40-50g) I would recommend doing a WC once every two weeks (once a week for tanks under 20g, especially without a skimmer).

I have run tanks that did really well without a skimmer. However after using one I would never go back to running without one again. If you can use one then I would (you can DIY effective skimmers for very little cost and second hand ones come cheaply as well).

 

[ben1987]

Thanks for the info. Wow, I figured you would have to do more then one water change per month.

i dindt read that properly. You need to make sure the nitrates dont go sky high. More regular water changes would be better.

 

[SkiFletch]

I was wondering is there a tank size that you would not have to use a skimmer in? If so, what other precautions should be taken? More frequent water changes?

The consideration of employing a skimmer is both tank size AND livestock choice together