by AquaNerd | Jun 11, 2014 | Science, Tanks
Vertex is expanding on their popular Omega protein skimmer line once again, this time adding internal pumps to the mix. As we mentioned a couple of weeks ago,Vertex was already teasing an Omega 180 skimmer ahead of Interzoo, but little did we know that the line would also include the Omega 200, and both would feature internal pumps. The original Omega protein skimmer, the Omega 150, debuted in 2012 and featured a Sicce pump placed external to the skimmer’s wind glass shaped body, vibration reducing feet, an adjustable pump volute, and rock solid build. The skimmer seemed to be an instant hit, prompting the smaller Omega 130 to be released the following year. Continuing on with the success, two larger models were added, which also introduced new features…primarily a space saving design that placed the pump under the bubble plate. Stepping it up even further, the 200i also gets a pump upgrade, moving from the Sicce to an Askoll motor block. The move for the space saving design comes as no surprise. Sumps seems to never have enough real estate for big bodied protein skimmers, but large tanks still need the firepower to handle those large bio-loads. by AquaNerd | May 22, 2014 | Fish, Science
Interzoo is the largest international aquarium-based trade show on the planet, and it just so happens to be right around the corner. With the date quickly approaching, we’re starting to hear rumblings of new products that will be announced at the massive event, leading off with a new item from Vertex Aquaristik. In a move that shouldn’t even remotely come as a surprise, Vertex looks as though they will be announcing a larger model to their popular Omega protein skimmer line. While we don’t have any specifics about the products, as Vertex wouldn’t immediately address our questions, we do know that it will be the Omega 180 based on the engraving on what is very likely the skimmer’s lid. We assume the Omega 180 will utilize the same wine glass body, Sicce Syncra pump, bubble diffuser plate, vibration dampening pads, and other features found in the rest of the lineup, only beefed up to handle a heavier bioload. We did notice that large red fish, part of the Vertex branding, on the skimmer lid, which is absent in the original design of the Omega. Perhaps this is the only subtle change, but perhaps there is more. We’ll know more about the Omega 180 as the show draws closer.
