The Puffer Forum

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

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)

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.

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.

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!

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.

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

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

2x K2s.

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

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. =]

Pufferpunk wrote: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!

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.

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

Pufferpunk wrote: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!