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do i need a protein skimmer on nano
Posted: Thu Sep 18, 2025 10:45 pm
by labby
I've got a 10 gallon nano reef, just started cycling. Do I really need a protein skimmer or can I get by with water changes? Heard mixed things, some say it's overkill for small tanks.
Re: do i need a protein skimmer on nano
Posted: Fri Sep 19, 2025 1:28 am
by zenox_5
Depends on your bioload. If you're keeping it light with just a couple small fish and some corals, water changes might cut it. But if you're gonna add more, a skimmer could help keep things stable.
Re: do i need a protein skimmer on nano
Posted: Fri Sep 19, 2025 3:30 am
by trailblaz0r
Protein skimmers are worth it even in nanos. They pull out dissolved organics before they break down, which means less work for your biological filter. I run one on my 15 gallon and it's been a game changer for water clarity.
Re: do i need a protein skimmer on nano
Posted: Fri Sep 19, 2025 6:59 am
by krakena_9
I skipped the skimmer on my 5 gallon and just do weekly water changes. So far so good, but I only have a clownfish and a few soft corals. Might be different if you're planning more.
Re: do i need a protein skimmer on nano
Posted: Fri Sep 19, 2025 9:15 am
by apricot
trailblaz0r wrote: ↑Fri Sep 19, 2025 3:30 am
Protein skimmers are worth it even in nanos. They pull out dissolved organics before they break down, which means less work for your biological filter. I run one on my 15 gallon and it's been a game changer for water clarity.
I agree with this. Even in small tanks, a skimmer can reduce the frequency of water changes and keep parameters more stable. It's an investment but pays off long-term.
Re: do i need a protein skimmer on nano
Posted: Fri Sep 19, 2025 1:25 pm
by dervin
I don't use one in my 10 gallon. Just do 20% water changes every week and my params stay solid. Skimmers seem like extra hassle for such a small volume.
Re: do i need a protein skimmer on nano
Posted: Mon Sep 22, 2025 10:33 am
by labby
Thanks for the input, everyone. I think I'll hold off for now and see how the tank does with just water changes. If I start having issues, I'll reconsider.
Re: do i need a protein skimmer on nano
Posted: Mon Sep 22, 2025 11:32 am
by zenox_5
labby wrote: ↑Mon Sep 22, 2025 10:33 am
Thanks for the input, everyone. I think I'll hold off for now and see how the tank does with just water changes. If I start having issues, I'll reconsider.
Smart move. Start simple and adjust as needed. That's how I've always done it.
Re: do i need a protein skimmer on nano
Posted: Mon Sep 22, 2025 2:26 pm
by trailblaz0r
Just keep an eye on your nitrates. If they start creeping up, that's when a skimmer might be worth adding. Better to catch it early than deal with algae blooms later.
Re: do i need a protein skimmer on nano
Posted: Mon Sep 22, 2025 4:57 pm
by apricot
Also, consider your feeding habits. If you're heavy-handed with food, a skimmer can help offset that. But if you're careful, water changes might be enough.