whats a scimmer???

[Balloon Fish]

hi guys i've seen in a lot of places people have metioned a scimmer, what is it? it sounds real important

 

[fishdude07]

gooood question, i've been wondering that too. I never found the need for one but I don't really know what theyre for. i dont think its very important for the common fish tank, tho

 

[tabby360]

I Think you mean skimmers, if so i believe they are for removing harmful particles in reef tanks before they have a chance to break down

 

[fishdude07]

ahhhh, mystery solved. thanks tabby. theyre only for reef tanks then?

 

[Balloon Fish]

oh ok thanks tabby thought i was missing out

 

[1979camaro]

yes...tabby is essentially correct...a protein skimmer removes disolved organics (mostly proteins) from saltwater aquariums; very useful peice of equipment, but worthless to a FW aquarium

 

[geKo]

Originally posted by 1979camaro
yes...tabby is essentially correct...a protein skimmer removes disolved organics (mostly proteins) from saltwater aquariums; very useful peice of equipment, but worthless to a FW aquarium

Many people use skimmers to keep the water on the top from getting nasty. I use a fluval surface skimmer in my 10gal planted.

definitely not worthless although many people dont use them for freshwater it is still seen a lot in freshwater setups

A protein skimmer on the other hand is seen in saltwater setups!

 

[1979camaro]

and so i stand corrected i reckon...tell me more about how this FW device works geko

 

[1979camaro]

and so i stand quasi-corrected i reckon...tell me more about how this FW device works geko

 

[TurbineSurgeon]

A surface skimmer works by drawing the top layer of water through the filter, taking the oily looking layer that sometimes forms with it to be broken down by the filter.

http://www.thatpetplace.com/Product...otein+Skimmers/T1/F69+0171+0831/Itemdy00.aspx

They are often quite noisy, making a gurgling, sucking sound.

 

[1979camaro]

sounds like a SW overflow without a durso pipe