New here

[Stacy Lynn]

Hi,

How important is a skimmer for a fish tank? Do I NEED one?

[bertoni]

<img src="/images/welcome.gif" width="500" height="62"><br><b><i><big><big>To Reef Central</b></i></big></big>

A skimmer can be a great safety net, in my opinion, but they're not necessary. If the tank has a heavy fish load, though, I'd definitely recommend one strongly. Personally, I'd use one in any case. Skimmers can provide a lot of oxygenation and remove a lot of decaying organic matter when something goes badly.

[GlobaLPimP]

ditto...and WELCOME:)

[sir_dudeguy]

pretty much the same as above. If its a small tank like 20 or less, then imo they're not completely needed...but once you start getting above 30, you should prolly get one imo.

but like bertoni said...i'd use one anyways. If its a smaller tank (less than 55 gallons) I'd use a coralife superskimmer 65 which can be bought for 70 bucks or something like that off of drsfostersmith.com or even cheaper used.

If its around 55, i suggest an aqua c remora. Thats what i had on my 55 and it was awsome. I will be using the same skimmer when i start up a 55 again sometime soon.