What is a protien skimmer

[Wannaknowaboutsand]

I saw these for sale and they say what they do but not what there for.
please help

 

[heresmike]

All I know is they're used on saltwater tanks.

 

[Dragonslair]

As freshmike says a protein skimmer is primarily designed for reef tanks and/or marine tanks.
They are a kind of unit that disinfects the water by "skimming" the "proteins" that build up on the water surface. These can be harmful to marine life so the PS draws it and basically breaks down the proteins.
A fresh water equilivant would either be an Ozonztor or a UV unit. I have the former and I have not had a single infection from the water to my fishes and the water is always crystal clear,

 

[Wannaknowaboutsand]

Thanks much!

 

[Dragonslair]

You are very welcome.
It's a pleasure to see a member taking the time to say thank you.