Protein Skimmer question

[xvCODY]

For a 30g FOWLR tank, which i'll be setting up in the next month or so, do i NEED a protein skimmer?

[xvCODY]

Actually since i'm posting this, what all equipment do i absolutely need for a FOWLR tank? I've been doing loads of research but i want direct answers from you guys. I know for a 30g GSP tank i'll need about 60lbs of LR and circulation pump. (Probably 2 koralias)

[Tim]

It's definitely nice to have. But they are ugly as sin .

I have an Aqua Medic Turboflotor 500 blue, though don't pin me down on the spelling.

I don't think it's necessary though. I wouldn't use mine again if I am ever going back to marine unless I can put it in a sump. Out of sight, out of mind.


In regards to live rock I believe you only require 1lbs per gallon of live rock.

[xvCODY]

I wasn't sure if they were needed on a smaller tank but if so, i'll gladly buy one. Good thing i still have about a month before i set this tank up because i feel like i still have a lot to learn.

[Pufferpunk]

Get a Backpac. Once you see & smell the crap it pulls out of your tank, you'll wonder how your fish could live in there!

[Tim]

Let's not forget about a RO/DI unit .

When I use plain tap water my white bucket looks greenish in the bottom, when it's filled with RO/DI water it looks as white as without water.

[xvCODY]

Okie dokie. Protein skimmer it is. Any suggestions on what types of Koralia pumps to get?

[wagner7123]

I would go with 2 240gph in a 30, that would give you good multi point flow with out blowing everything around

[Pufferpunk]

2x K2s.

[Tim]

I personally liked the Polario 7ML or the 4ML they simulate waves.

[xvCODY]

Thanks for the help so far everyone. I'll be coming back to this thread off and on looking for more help when i actually set up this new tank. Getting it next week then i get to piece it all together. =]

[goldielocke76]

Get a Backpac. Once you see & smell the crap it pulls out of your tank, you'll wonder how your fish could live in there!

What Bacpac would you recommend for a 21.5"h x 13.5"d x 48" l, 60g FOWLR tank? (I gave dimensions because it holds 60g of water (with LR the water volume is only 45g), but I am not quite sure exactly what kind of tank that is since I haven't been able to find anything else like it.

This was the one originally that I was looking at, but I don't know very much about them yet. http://www.marinedepot.com/ps_viewitem. ... ntent=ACRM

Thanks PP!

[Pufferpunk]

I do nit believe that large enough to handle the bioload of a 60g. You could go with the Coralife 125g (touchy about adjustments but great HOB skimmer) or the Backpac duo.

[xvCODY]

Will i need a skimmer right away or could i get away without one for about a month?

[goldielocke76]

I do nit believe that large enough to handle the bioload of a 60g. You could go with the Coralife 125g (touchy about adjustments but great HOB skimmer) or the Backpac duo.

If I can find two of the CPR Bak-Pak 2 Protein Skimmer, would those be sufficient? I ask because of two reasons: 1. Because the only thing on Craigslist seems to be this one and not the duo, 2. I have my tank pulled out 3.5" from the wall, and the duo would require it to be almost 4 inches, and with everything in it, I am not sure how I would accomplish moving it LoL. I found two of the skimmers on CL for $150 (for both) and 1 brand new one is about $140.xx (from Amazon). Also, do I need a skimmer before I get the GSP? Thanks again PP!