The Puffer Forum

I am bringing my GSP'S salt up to marine and have heard mix reviews on protein skimmers. Should I use one? If so what protein skimmer is good?

Since puffers are such messy eaters it certainly wouldn't hurt anything. If you're going to use live rock then you're probably going to want a skimmer. How big is your tank?

The entire purpose of bringing a GSP from high-end BW to SW is to be able to incorporate SW filtration for your system. This includes protein skimmer, live rock & goo flow. then you can remove your FW filtration & do less water changes.

Its a 20g. with a hang on biowheel filter made for a MUCH larger tank. I has 1 GPS, approximately 4". I was gonna upgrade to a larger tank with 2 but then 1 died, I think cause of stress. I have a power head also.

I do plan on live rock. I already have some fossilized coral pieces from a bag. Does this do the same thing as live rock?(obviously without adding organisms since it was dry). Also I guess my next question is what is goo flow?

Good*

Yes, keeping even 3 juvie GSPs in a 20g would stress them out. If I were you, I'd go ahead with the upgrade, before you raise the SG any more. What size were you considering for the 3 I think your single puffer would love a 55g! Then you could add a few damselfish or Tomato clownfish, if he'll allow tank mates.

You'll find out what 'goo flow' is once you set up a protein skimmer, haw haw haw. Not sure about the fossilized coral but if it's dried out I would assume that the majority - if not all - of the organisms on it are dead. In that case it will not be the same as a live rock.

+1 to PP's suggestion of a larger tank. GSP's can grow to be six inches in length. My GSP back in the day did grow to be about that size.

It is possible I could get a larger tank for him, not sure I have the space, but I can make room. I actually had 2, and was thinking 50g. so a 55g. for my 1 would be better. For a tank this size what form(s) of filtration should I use as a main form(s) of filtration. Now I have a hang on marine land biowheel for a tank of 55g.(actually it says it can do larger) in my 20g. with the thought of less water changes in mind. Would this carry on to the bigger tank with other forms added.

Since the minimum tank size for a GSP is 30g, a 50 for 2 adults would have never worked. I know my singleton would have been thrilled with a 55g for himself & had to re-home my 3 puffers in the 55, because of this. Keep your FW filtration, until you have fully-functioning SW filtration on there. Most of us find the BioWheel to become very messy when using salt, as the wheel will spray it everywhere. I prefer Aquaclear filters.

Aqua Clear Hang on filter? I love those! I have one for a 10g. Not same model I would use obviously but, a great brand.
Oh and what brand/model of protein skimmer do you suggest I've never owned one so I'm lost.

Sorry for all the newbie questions.

If you'r planning on not using s sump, you could go woth the HOB Backpac (I have 2) or Remora.

yah I don't think I'll use a sump, I'm low on cash as it is Thanks for the help!