reef keeper
Member
Need help are bio ball realy nessesary in a reef system? Can a really good protein skimmer do a better job? And with that which skimmer is better for you at a lo-cost. I'm thinking of buying a Deltec skimmer.
bio balls
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Luukosian
Well-Known Member
If the tank doesn't have water in it ditch the bioballs. If its already established remove a few of the bioballs every week or so. Bioballs will build up detritus and cause nitrates, where a skimmer will actually removes detritus from the system before it has a chance to break down.
That is a very broad and basic explanation, but there is a lot more in depth discussion on bioballs and skimmers all over the forums, just do a search.
That is a very broad and basic explanation, but there is a lot more in depth discussion on bioballs and skimmers all over the forums, just do a search.
lcstorc
Well-Known Member
Bio-balls are not necessary and are considered detrimental in a reef system. The use of bio-balls has been replaced by the use of Live Rock which privides even better de-nitrification. (lots more explanation in beginner stickies).
A protein skimmer does not remove the detrius before it has a chance to break down. It removes excess organics from the system. To capture the detrius you will want to use a filter sock, sponge, or other media which will need to be cleaned or replaced frequently to remove the detritus.
As far as the skimmer recommendation we would need to know more about the system. Size would be important as well as bio-load and the presence or absence of a sump.
If you have a sump, I am quite fond of the ASM G series of skimmers though there are many others that are very good as well.
A protein skimmer does not remove the detrius before it has a chance to break down. It removes excess organics from the system. To capture the detrius you will want to use a filter sock, sponge, or other media which will need to be cleaned or replaced frequently to remove the detritus.
As far as the skimmer recommendation we would need to know more about the system. Size would be important as well as bio-load and the presence or absence of a sump.
If you have a sump, I am quite fond of the ASM G series of skimmers though there are many others that are very good as well.
reef keeper
Member
here is the info you requested