Do I Need A Protein Skimmer

[SME19535]

I have a 20 gallon saltwater aquarium, i have a whisper filter, 2 power heads for water movement. I have only 3 fish, a clown fish and 2 dominos. I have a lot of rock, 2 shrimp, 2 hermit crabs, one devils hand leather coral, some mushroom corals, some pollops, one emerald crab, half a dozen snails. What i need to know is should i also have a protein skimmer

 

[Plecs&Puffers]

Not really sure - you might find more help if you post this in the marine section. Though if this is anything to go by - i have not seen a good marine tank without a protien skimmer .... but have no clue about them ! sorry for being vague

Goodluck

 

[ox5477]

you prob already posted in the marine section.. but here goes:

It is debated whether a low volume tank can run without a protein skimmer. With such a small volume and being sure to keep on water changes can mitigate any need for the skimmer as the particulate will not accumalate to any dangerous levels. But also, it would not hurt to have the skimmer going. And, since you have corals, it will prob help more than anything else it will give the corals better water to live and thrive in.

So... You don't need one neccessarily but it will most likely benefit your stocking to have one

 

[loachman]

Basically what ox said.

It will help with your water quality. However, since it is a small tank it is possible to make frequent water changes to keep the dissolved organic concentrations low. The more stuff in the tank, the more likely you are to need on though.

Also, be sure to clean the filter regularly/weekly.