Filter, skimmer ???

[Shaemus]

I have been reading about skimmers and filters, what will give better quality for a 54 gal tank. If i get a skimmer do i need a filter, or should i have both or skip the skimmer ?

 

[Anonymous]

Get a high quality skimmer, you won't regret it.
There is no need for any other type of mechanical filter, most will end up causing you more trouble than they are worth.

 

[SnowManSnow]

The MAJORITY of reefers use a skimmer and live rock for filtration. Works great if you get a nice skimmer. DO NOT GET A PRISM OR A SEACLONE no matter WHAT the LFS tries to sell you.

Skimmers I would recommend can be found here:

www.aquac.com (remora or remora pro)
www.advancedaquarist.com (find the octopus skimmer) ... what I have is the octopus 150 recirc.

I recommend these because I have either used or am using them... very nice things.

B

 

[Reggie]

DO NOT GET A PRISM OR A SEACLONE no matter WHAT the LFS tries to sell you.

The question begs to be asked - Why not a Prism?

 

[Shaemus]

Thank you very much guys

 

[Kevin1000]

I have been reading about skimmers and filters, what will give better quality for a 54 gal tank. If i get a skimmer do i need a filter, or should i have both or skip the skimmer ?

My 02

Depends on your setup.

The std mantra in most SW forums is that a good skimmer and 1+ lb of live rock per gallon is sufficient. But that mantra is based on the use of a good skimmer combined with a sump. If you don't have both of those then you should also consider adding a cansiter or other mechanical filter (in additon to the skimmer). If you add the mechanical filter then make sure your frequently clean the filter media which will mitigate nitrate issues.

 

[SnowManSnow]

DO NOT GET A PRISM OR A SEACLONE no matter WHAT the LFS tries to sell you.

The question begs to be asked - Why not a Prism?

Search through the articles here... not only does the question beg to be asked, but it has been answered.

Overall, most people are not satisfied with a seaclone or prism for extended reefkeeping. There are a few exceptions.

 

[mr_X]

i had a prizm pro. i was very unhappy with it. now i use an ASM. much better :wink:
it was impossible to set correctly, and then when i set the bubbles on the low side, the slightest change in the tank would overflow it immediately. my skimmer now, accepts changes in the tank the way i think it should. subtle increases and decreases in skimmate.