Small Skimmer Ideas

[AJ]

I am in process of building a 40 Breeder (with a 20 Long Sump) frag tank.  I am searching for a skimmer that will not be overpowered for that small water volume (around 50 gallons).  The only ones that I can find are rated for 75+ gallons.  Any ideas??

[jfishwild]

Here is something I found

http://www.marineandreef.com/Best_Protein_Skimmers_for_50_75_90_Gallon_Tanks_s/370.htm

[Wall_Tank]

The same setup that I have.  I run a Vertex Omega 130.

The ratings are way over inflated.  If you are going to put SPS in the system, then I would get a skimmer rated for at least 150% of the volume.

[Rob]

My personal feelings...you can not overskim.  If something is stated to skim 75 gallons, I think that would be perfect for a 40 gallon tanks.  Manufacturers are notorious for overstating capacity.  Skimmers should also be rated based on a bio-load too.  Most systems will vary.

[Rob]

The ratings are way over inflated.  If you are going to put SPS in the system, then I would get a skimmer rated for at least 150% of the volume.

Agreed!

[joelbegt]

The Reef Octopus BH50 sounds about correct at 50gallon rated light load 30 gallon heavy.  I do believe you can over skim with a light load on a tank while riding an ULNS line.  I know of at least one very successful SPS setup that has backed down the skimmer to help with SPS health. 


http://www.coralvue.com/reef-octopus-bh-50-protein-skimmer

[buckeyereefer]

Bubble Magus curve 5 is a popular skimmer for that water volume on several nano forums. I am running a Vortex 130 on same setup as you. I like the Vortex but after reading posts of the BM curve. I acquired one to try but never got it running. Seems to be built real nice though.   Decided to shut everything down for awhile.