Do I Need a Protein Skimmer for My Reef Tank?
Quick Answer
While not absolutely required, a protein skimmer is highly recommended for most reef tanks. It removes organic waste before it breaks down, improving water quality and reducing maintenance.
While not absolutely required, a protein skimmer is highly recommended for most reef tanks. It removes organic waste (proteins, amino acids, and other dissolved organics) before they break down into nitrates and phosphates, significantly improving water quality and reducing your maintenance burden.
How Protein Skimmers Work
Protein skimmers use a process called foam fractionation. Air bubbles are injected into a chamber of tank water, and dissolved organic compounds stick to the surface of these bubbles. The bubbles rise into a collection cup, where the organic "skimmate" is removed from your system entirely.
Benefits of Running a Skimmer
- Lower nutrients: Removes organics before they become nitrates and phosphates
- Better oxygenation: The air injection process saturates your water with oxygen
- Clearer water: Removes compounds that cause yellowing
- Reduced algae: Lower nutrients mean less fuel for nuisance algae
- Healthier corals: Especially important for SPS and sensitive species
When You Might Skip a Skimmer
Some successful reef tanks run without skimmers, particularly:
- Nano tanks under 20 gallons: Frequent water changes may suffice
- Heavily planted refugiums: Macroalgae like chaetomorpha can export nutrients instead
- Low bioload systems: Few fish with mostly soft corals
- Ultra Low Nutrient (ULNS) systems: Some advanced reefers intentionally run without to maintain slight nutrient levels
Choosing the Right Size
Size your skimmer for your tank volume or slightly larger:
- Light bioload: Skimmer rated for your exact tank size
- Medium bioload: Skimmer rated for 1.5x your tank size
- Heavy bioload: Skimmer rated for 2x your tank size or more
It's better to oversize than undersize. A bigger skimmer can always be tuned down, but an undersized skimmer will struggle.
Types of Skimmers
- Hang-on-back (HOB): Good for tanks without sumps, easy installation
- In-sump: Most popular for tanks with sumps, keeps equipment hidden
- External: Placed outside the sump, often used for larger systems
Bottom Line
For most reefers, especially those keeping SPS corals or running a mixed reef with fish, a quality protein skimmer is one of the best investments you can make. It makes maintaining stable, low-nutrient conditions much easier and gives your livestock a better environment to thrive.
Track your nitrate and phosphate levels with the ReefBay app to see how your skimmer impacts your water quality over time.
Was this helpful?
