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hi ppl.............what is a protein skimmer? and how does it work??:confused:

Originally posted by jaypython
hi ppl.............what is a protein skimmer? and how does it work??:confused:

Hey there JayPython -- I split the thread and started a new one with your question -- might be an interesting conversation! --Mark:cool:

what is a protein skimmer?

short anwser - a filter,that removes organic waste a normal filter can't.

A protein skimmer is usually made in or of a tube or tower with a collection container on the top (usually removable).And a pump or an airstone (often the wood airstones) is attached to it somewhere. Designs vary alot though just like normal filters the come in models that hang on the tank,ones that hang inside a tank or models that plumb into wet/drys

how does it work

A protein skimmer basically works by injecting a ton of fine bubbles into the tube (or tower) using either an air stone or a high pressure water pump or powerhead and air valve . The bubbles act as a lift in the tube floating up waste to the collection cup as foam . The foam then gets dumped out = cleaner tank

Unfortunatly they really only work on salt water,since fresh water dosn't foam well.

Hmmm....ok thanks for the input.

Im just curious because as you say stilllearnin its only really used on saltwater/marines.
Im gonna set up a saltwater fish only tank soon and ive red through most of these posts and i think ive got the general idea of not needing a skimmer for fish only set ups??

I was kinda hopeing to get all the info i needed to set up marine on this forum...but as junior said in other posts,the best way is to get a book and run step by step page for page..

can't wait to get it up and running...will get plenty of pics posted as i run through each stage....gonna take time but its worth the wait.

thanx again!!:thumbsup:

yeah for fish only a protein skimmer isn't needed - won't hurt anything but not really worth paying for either.

If you ever decided to add corals and etc.. then it's worth investing in.

the best way is to get a book and run step by step page for page..

:thumbsup: yep - pretty much like fresh once you do it - just TAKE YOUR TIME seems the problem most people have is trying to rush with salt

Ok cool...thanx for your help...will keep you posted as and when i start going with it..