[Lab_Man]

I have been doing a lot of reading and it seems that a protein skimmer would be beneficial in removing dissolved organic compounds from the water column.

http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2002-06/fm/feature/index.php



According to the article, it removes DOCs, which contribute to algae and microbiological blooms. Pretty much what we all seem to be fighting on a continual basis.

Unless it would remove beneficial molecules, I fail to see a downside.


What do you think?

 

[DaveK]

There are a few times when I have used a skimmer in a fe tank, but it's usually when something in the tank will be removed by the foaming action of the skimmer.

Usually that doesn't occur in FW, so a skimmer doesn't do much.

I'd save that if you had one, give it a try, but don't spend money on one fro FW with out a very specific problem to solve. For example I have seen them used on goldfish tanks. In that case, you have a dirty fish that throws off a lot of slime.

If you are going to get one, avoid the low price junk that doesn't even work in SW. Expect to spend about $150 - 200 for something decent.

 

[JeffE]

Its hard for protein skimmers to build up enough bubble head in a fw tank to even get into the collection cup. The bubbles stay much finer in a sw tank.

 

[Lab_Man]

I was thinking of building my own.

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1762726

I'm contemplating a saltwater tank. Every time we go to a fish store I can't pry my wife and daughter out of the salt water section!

Is it the salinity that causes the foaming or the DOC in the water?