Protein Skimmer - Is One Needed Or Not?

[marineruss]

I have a tank set up which has been running for 3 months now. I didnt get a protein skimmer initially, as the external ones were to bulky and would mean having the tank a long distance from the wall - Not what I wanted.

I instead waited and got the new Aqua Medic i400 Internal skimmer which I had to get from Germany as I couldnt get hold of it over here!

I have installed it today and its just way to big inside the tank, really utilises a lot of space.................Now I am pondering on not having one as there is a lot of people who i have spoken to and read about who have said it is not definately needed

Thoughts please - i know there isnt a definitive answer, but would my fish survive? What would the signs be of too much protein? Is there a test that can be done for protein levels??

My tank readings are all constant and really good. I change 30Litres at least every two weeks

MY TANK
180 Litres Tank

2x Sand Shifting Stars
1x Fire Shirmp
1x Boxing Shrimp
1x Tang
1x Baby Emperor
1x Blue Damsel
1x Angelfish
Live Rock

TetraTec EX700 Filter

Your thoughts would be much appreciated!!!

Sorry Posted on the wrong forum, Please send all replies to the Marine Forum