A Guide To The Best Protein Skimmers: 60 Gallons to 150 Gallons and More.
Table of Contents
Protein skimmers go hand in hand with salt water tanks. They are simply 24/7 dirt removers that work day and night to make your job much easier in maintaining the best conditions in your aquarium. A tank without a skimmer has the potential to produce excess phosphate and nitrate which becomes hard to control over time. This lead to unwanted and uncontrolled algae and eventually a tank unsuitable for it’s inhabitants. Below we will look at the best protein skimmer for your tank size and your budget.
Although this article has been sub-divided into groups of 30 gallon increments, you will find that some skimmers can be used in larger setups and smaller setups. This comes down to your bioload being produced by your inhabitants.
Protein Skimmers - tanks up to 60 gallons
When considering purchasing a protein skimmer for an aquarium with a volume of between 30 and 60 gallons, you can be spoilt for choice. Unlike smaller nano tanks that can limit your choice in fish, you can now look seriously at a number of smaller varieties of fish. However with the increase in fish stock comes an increase in the bioload (detritus) they produce. Invariably you will need a skimmer up to the task of keeping your aquarium clean.
With the increase in water volume the skimmer needs to cycle through, so does the increase in skimmer cost mount up. This rundown should give you a good indication of the protein skimmers available to you, and which would be the better choice for your aquarium.
60 Gallon Protein Skimmers - in detail below this comparison chart
Coralife Super Protein Skimmer with Pump
Rated up to 65 Gallons
HOB Internal Skimmer or in-sump
- Needlewheel aspiration system.
- Dual injection inlets
Marine Color RDC 250 Protein Skimmer
Rated up to 70 Gallons
In-sump
- Suitable for using in small footprint sump.
- Fashionable RED and white pipe fittings.
SC Aquariums SCA-301 Protein Skimmer
Rated up to 65 Gallons
In-sump
- Air silencer is included.
- Collection cup with drain tube.
Reef Octopus Classic 100 HOB Protein Skimmer
Rated from 13 to 105 Gallons
HOB External Skimmer
- Low profile body
- Powered by Reef Octopus Aquatrance Pump
Icecap K1 -100 Protein Skimmer
Rated from 40 to 80 Gallons
In-sump
- Turbulence Reducing Body.
- Pipeless output offers fine-tuning.
Aquamaxx WS-1 In-Sump Protein Skimmer
Rated from 30 to 65 Gallons
In-sump
- Move the collection cup up or down to adjust the foam level.
- Powered by Sicce Syncra pump.
IOAOI PS-120 Protein Skimmer
Rated from 52 to 132 Gallons
In-sump
- Cone-shaped diversion plate for denser bubbles.
- Positive rotating wave technology
Tunze Comline DOC 9004 Protein Skimmer
Rated from 15 to 65 Gallons
Magnetic internal skimmer
- Self cleaning impellor.
- Surface intake with bacterial film removal
Coralife Super Protein Skimmer with Pump
The Coralife Super Protein Skimmer features dual injection inlets to increase the contact time between bubble and water, and a bubble production infuser that prevents the flow of micro-bubbles into the main aquarium.
The needle-wheel system creates a spiraling vortex of water and micro bubbles inside the reaction chamber where the bubbles attract fine proteins and organic compounds
The skimmer has been rated for the following:
This skimmer is recommended for aquariums up to 65 gallons.
Great Features include:
Adaptable for both hang on aquarium mounting or to use in a sump.
Includes a high-performance foam fractionator that is effective at removing organic compounds.
Wide neck collection cup with easy twist feature for effortless cleaning
Skimmer size: 20.75″ high, 4.25″ x 5.5″ wide.
Marine Color RDC 250 Protein Skimmer
The Marine Color RDC 250 Protein Skimmer has been designed to use in a sump. It’s small footprint makes it an ideal choice for smaller sumps. The skimmer includes a high efficiency pinwheel pump and comes in a striking white and red design. The cone shaped reaction chamber makes for stable bubble production and collection.
The skimmer has been rated for the following:
This skimmer has been designed for aquariums up to 70 gallons.
Great Features include:
A small footprint for in-sump aquariums. Although Amazon sell in as a hang on skimmer, it is not.
An easy to remove collection cup.
A high efficiency pinwheel pump that fits beneath the reaction chamber.
Skimmer size: 16.14″ high, 8.27″ x 7.87″ wide.
SC Aquariums SCA-301 Protein Skimmer
The SC Aquariums SCA-301 Protein Skimmer includes a collection cup drain off tube which is very handy for emptying skimate without needing to remove the cup, but of course the collection cup can also be easily removed for cleaning. An air silencer is included too to minimise noise created by the air and water reaction all skimmers produce.
The skimmer has been rated for the following:
This skimmer has been recommended to aquariums for up to 65 gallons.
Great Features include:
Features 6 levels of water flow adjustment for dialing in.
Designed for use in a sump.
Includes an Atman PH1100 Skimmer Pump with Needle Impeller
Skimmer size: 11″ high, 4″ x 2.4″ wide
Reef Octopus Classic 100 HOB Protein Skimmer
The Reef Octopus Classic 100 HOB Protein Skimmer stands out because it is a hang-on-back external skimmer. This means that instead of occupying valuable space inside your aquarium, it is mounted outside. This skimmer is aimed at hobbyists who do not have sumps, but want their skimmer to be just as efficient as an in-sump skimmer.
The skimmer has been rated for the following:
This skimmer is recommended for aquariums from 13 to 105 gallons.
Great Features include:
Low profile for fitting behind your aquarium.
Includes air silencers to minimise noise output.
Features an adaptive surface water degreasing function.
Powered by Reef Octopus Aquatrance pump
Skimmer size: 19.49″ high, 0.51″ x 9.41″ wide
Icecap K1 -100 Protein Skimmer
The Icecap K1-100 Protein Skimmer is quite a compact product made for the smaller sump. The ‘beer bottle’ curve of the of the reaction chamber helps to achieve natural stability of air and water as they combine. The skimmer can be completely disassembled for a thorough cleaning.
The skimmer has been rated for the following:
This skimmer has been recommended for aquariums from 40 to 80 gallons
Great Features include:
A pipeless output allows fine tuning for dialing in.
Includes IceCap EVair 400 skimmer pump
A unique bubble dispersing chamber situated lower in the reaction chamber creates additional contact time for foam stability.
Skimmer size: 19″ high, 7.5″ x 4.5″ wide
Aquamaxx WS-1 In-Sump Protein Skimmer
The Aquamaxx WS-1 In-Sump Protein Skimmer takes a different slant on the traditional cylindrical shape of protein skimmers. They have also created a skimmer with a collection cup that can be raised or lowered according to your output requirement. Most noticeably is the use of the Italian made Sicce pump which Red Sea have also chosen to use for longevity.
The skimmer has been rated for the following:
This skimmer is recommended for aquariums up to 65 gallons.
Great Features include:
Features a collection cup that can be raise and lowered according to need.
The Sicce pump is placed inside the body of the skimmer to save space.
Skimmer size: 14″ high excluding the collection cup, 5.9″ x 3.2″ wide
IOAOI PS-120 Protein Skimmer
The IOAOI PS-120 Protein Skimmer is the perfect choice if you plan to upgrade to a larger aquarium in the future. Not only does it have a small footprint for its capability, but can also work effectively in larger systems. It has been designed to produce much denser longer contact time.
The skimmer has been rated for the following:
This skimmer is recommended for aquariums from 52 to 132 gallons.
Great Features include:
Cone shaped diversion plate to generate much richer bubbles.
The pump uses standard positive wave technology.
Includes adjustable water height/flow.
Easily removable collection cup for cleaning and maintenance.
Skimmer size: 18.1″ high, 6.3″ x 5.5″ wide
Tunze Comline DOC 9004 Protein Skimmer
The Tunze Comline DOC 9004 Protein Skimmer stands out from other skimmers in this category. Not only does it function as a skimmer, but it also functions as surface scum remover. The Tunze can be used in sump or within the aquarium and is secured with a strong magnet.
includes ‘Flash Skimming’ fast and efficient waste removal.
The skimmer has been rated for the following:
This skimmer is recommended for aquariums up to 65 gallons.
Great Features include:
Magnetic mount on glass up to 1/2″ thick.
Features airflow regulation for exceptionally quiet operation.
Includes an intermediate chamber with a patented anti-overfoaming system.
Skimmer size: 12″ high, 4.3″ x 3.5″ wide
Protein Skimmers - tanks up to 90 gallons
As tank sizes and water volume increases we find that skimmers start becoming more specialist, in that larger skimmer manufacture is left to known brands. Smaller brands tend to stick to lower volume aquariums. Larger skimmers are extemely capable, and they need to be with larger aquariums. 90 gallon tanks are capable of supporting an enormous array of life and perfect water conditions help the aquarist do just that. You are able to introduce several species of smaller fish, all of which will contribute to the bioload within the aquarium. Consequently, you will need a skimmer that does the job it is intended for.
Reef Octopus Classic 100 HOB Protein Skimmer categorized in the 60 gallon section but can also be included in the 90 gallon section.
IOAOI PS-120 Protein Skimmer categorized in the 60 gallon section but can also be included in the 90 gallon section.
90 Gallon Protein Skimmers - in detail below this comparison chart
Aquatop Xyclone Protein Skimmer
Rated up to 100 Gallons
HOB External Skimmer
- Variable mounting: in sump or HOB
- Mounting on up to 5/8″ rim
Reef Octopus BH90 Hang On Protein Skimmer
Rated up to 130 Gallons
HOB External Skimmer
- Cylindrical main body
- Acts as a surface skimmer too, removing surface film.
Icecap K1-130 Protein Skimmer
Rated from 80 to 140 Gallons
In-sump
- Includes Evair 400 skimmer pump
- Pipeless output for fine tuning
Aquamaxx HOB 1.5 Hang-On-Back Protein Skimmer
Rated up to 90 Gallons
HOB External Skimmer
- Fits aquarium rims up to 3/4″ thick
- Adjustable foam output
Reef Octopus Classic 110-INT Protein Skimmer
Rated up to 100 Gallons
In-sump
- Collection cup with drain outlet.
- Includes Reef Octopus made Aquatrance pump
Bubble Magus BM Curve 5 Protein Skimmer
Rated up to 140 Gallons
In-sump
- Needlewheel pump with venturi intake.
- Includes a collection cup drain.
Aquatop Xyclone Protein Skimmer
The Aquatop Xyclone Protein Skimmer is pretty unique in construction in that it looks and behaves like a traditional in sump skimmer, but it hangs on the outside of your tank (or sump) with only inlet and outlet pipes in the tank. However, you could choose to use it in sump too although the footprint would be much larger then.
The skimmer has been rated for the following:
This skimmer is recommended for aquariums up to 100 Gallons.
Great Features include:
Adjustable dual outlet
Variable mounting: in sump or hang on.
Fits up to 5/8″ rim
Includes a needle wheel pump.
Skimmer size: 15.75″ high, 8.5″ x 5.25″ wide
Reef Octopus BH90 Hang On Protein Skimmer
The Reef Octopus Classic 90 (BH90) Hang On Protein Skimmer stands apart from other Reef Octopus HOB ‘box shaped’ skimmers. It has been constructed with more of the traditional cylindrical internal skimmer in mind, and will consequently be expected to behave like a traditional internal skimmer without the need of a sump. Simply hang it from the back of your aquarium.
The skimmer has been rated for the following:
The skimmer has been recommended for aquariums up to 130 gallons.
Great Features include:
An easy to remove collection cup with drain off outlet.
Capable of removing surface film of aquarium water.
Includes Reef Octopus Aquatrance pinwheel pump.
Skimmer size: 23.8″ high, 7.5″ x 7.5″ wide.
Icecap K1-130 Protein Skimmer
The Icecap K1 – 130 Protein Skimmer is a fairly compact skimmer designed for use in a sump. Like all skimmers by Icecap it has been manufactured in orange and white PVC and robust acrylic. Includes Icecaps distinctive turbulence reducing body.
The skimmer has been rated for the following:
This skimmer has been recommended for aquariums from 80 to 140 gallons.
Great Features include:
Features a bubble dispersant chamber
Includes a pipeless output valve
The collection cup includes a drain off outlet for easy maintenance
Cleaning and maintenance helped by ability to completely disassemble
Skimmer size: 19″ high, 5.6″ x 7.3″ wide
Aquamaxx HOB 1.5 Hang-On-Back Protein Skimmer
The Aquamaxx HOB 1.5 Hang-on-Back Protein Skimmer is another great option for an aquarium that does not include a sump. The collection cup can be raised or lowered depending on your need for wet or dry skimmate. The collection cup includes a drain fitting for running skimmate into a separate container.
The skimmer has been rated for the following:
This skimmer is recommended for aquariums up to 90 gallons.
Great Features include:
Features a Shark 1.0 pump made by Italian pump maker Sicce.
Includes an enlarged bubble diffuser and reaction chamber.
Custom conical bubble diffusors help minimize the turbulence
Collection cup raised or lowered dependant on your output requirement.
Skimmer size: 17″ high, 7.5″ x 3.5″ wide
Reef Octopus Classic 110 INT Protein Skimmer
The Reef Octopus Classic 110-INT Protein Skimmer is designed for use in a sump only, powered by Reef Octopus ‘air shredding’ aquatrance pump with upgraded pinwheel impellor providing 100% improved performance.
The small footprint makes this skimmer ideal for a sump with limited space.
The skimmer has been rated for the following:
This skimmer is recommended for aquariums up to 132 gallons.
Great Features include:
Features an easy to remove collection cup with drain off.
Includes a precision water level control output valve.
Hybrid conical body with a vented valve output.
Easy disassembly for maintenance.
Skimmer size: 19.7″ high, 10.2″ x 6.9″ wide
Bubble Magus BM Curve 5 Protein Skimmer
The Bubble Magus BM Curve 5 Protein Skimmer has become another very well known brand. They are named after the innovative ‘curve’ of the skimmer body that allows the foam to rise smoothly into the collection cup. The collection cup features a drain off valve for easier maintenance too.
The skimmer has been rated for the following:
The skimmer has been recommended for aquariums from 80 to 132 gallons.
Great Features include:
An easy to remove collection cup with drain off valve.
Includes a ROCK DSP1000 skimmer needlewheel pump.
A compact footprint allowing for easy installation in a sump.
Skimmer size: 18″ high, 7.3″ x 7.1″ wide
Protein Skimmers - tanks up to 120 gallons
When considering a protein skimmer for an aquarium that can hold up to 120 gallons of water the importance of effective removal of dissolved organics becomes paramount. Not only does the skimmer have to filter more water, but larger aquariums can hold larger fish. Larger fish such as Tangs, Rabbitfish and Angels can be potentially added, all of which have the ability to foul water very quickly – creating excessive nitrates and phosphates. This is where protein skimmers really begin to shine, as they work constantly as a means of helping to maintain a healthy tank.
Icecap K1-130 Protein Skimmer categorized in the 90 gallon section but can also be included in the 120 gallon section.
IOAOI PS-120 Protein Skimmer categorized in the 60 & 90 gallon section but can also be included in the 120 gallon section
Bubble Magus BM Curve 5 Protein Skimmer categorized in the 90 gallon section but can also be included in the 120 gallon section
120 Gallon Protein Skimmers - in detail below this comparison chart
Red Sea Reefer 300 Protein Skimmer
Rated from 80 to 240 Gallons
In-sump
- Manual neck cleaner
- Multi positioning build to suit sump
Simplicity 120DC Protein Skimmer
Rated up to 120 Gallons
In-sump
- Adjustable DC pump speed.
- Collection cup drain with cap.
Coralife Super Protein Skimmer with Pump
Rated from 65 to 220 Gallons
In-sump or HOB Internal Skimmer
- Dual injection inlets
- Patented needle wheel system
NYOS Quantum 120 Protein Skimmer
Rated from 25 to 125 Gallons
In-sump
- Hybrid wheel: lattice and needle wheel combination
- Especially quiet when running
Reef Octopus Classic 110 Space Saver Protein Skimmer
Rated up to 132 Gallons
In-sump
- Output designed for bubble-free outflow
- Easily disassembled for maintenance
Red Sea Reefer 300 Protein Skimmer
The Red Sea Reefer 300 Protein Skimmer is the smallest skimmer offered by Red Sea, but really does pack a punch. All Red Sea skimmers feature a manual neck cleaner that is handy for maintaining optimal functionality the need to disassemble and clean. They also include a generous drain off with long tubing and shut off valve. All are also fitted with Italian Sicce pumps known for reliability.
Check out our in depth Red Sea Skimmer review here.
The skimmer has been rated for the following:
For SPS dominant tanks – up to 80 gallons
For mixed reef tanks – up to 160 gallons
For fish only tanks – up to 240 gallons
Great Features include:
A large collection cup with drain off tubing.
All interconnecting joins are buffered by rubber components to do away with vibration and noise.
Multi-assembly positions to suit differing sumps.
Skimmer size:
Orientation 1: 21″ high, 9.1″ x 8.3″ wide
Orientation 2: 21″ high, 9.8″ x 7.1″ wide
Simplicity 120DC Protein Skimmer
The Simplicity 120DC Protein Skimmer follows through with the simplicity of its design, but with the addition of a controllable DC pump. Not only can you manually control the skimmer with the pipe setting indicator, but the DC controller allows you to set the pump to your desired output too.
The skimmer has been rated for the following:
This skimmer has been recommended for aquariums up to 120 gallons.
Great Features include:
Collection cup with built in cup drain and bayonet lock-in.
Energy efficient DC pump.
Controller with digital read out.
Needle wheel impellor.
Skimmer size: 18.5″ high, 6.7″ x 6.3″ wide
Coralife Super Protein Skimmer with Pump
The Coralife Super Protein Skimmer is available for saltwater tanks up to 125g. It includes a high-performance foam-fractionator combined with a needle wheel pump and aspirating venturi, all of which create a spiralling vortex of water and microbubbles.
The skimmer has been rated for the following:
This skimmer has been recommended for aquariums from 65 to 220 gallons.
Great Features include:
Features a foam-fractionator
An easy twist threaded locking ring to secure the collection cup in place.
Includes dual injection inlets.
Can be used in-sump or hang on.
Skimmer size: 24.5″ high, 7.25″ x 5″ wide
NYOS Quantum 120 Protein Skimmer
The Nyos Quantum 120 Protein Skimmer is a German made skimmer focussing on ‘Extreme performance’, ‘Very smooth operation’, ‘Low power consumption’, and ‘Easy to maintain’. The Nyos Twister is a saw-blade shaped twister that creates a vortex, while the Sinus design refers to the method in which the bubbles rise, unimpeded.
The skimmer has been rated for the following:
This skimmer has been recommended for aquariums up to 125 gallons
Great Features include:
The Quantum Hybrid Wheel combines needle wheel and lattice wheel in one.
The NYOS Twister to create a vortex.
Sea water-proof screws made from pure titanium.
Precise micro-adjustment screws.
Skimmer size: 18.3″ high, 8.3″ x 5.9″ wide
Reef Octopus Classic 110-S Straight Body Protein Skimmer
The Reef Octopus Classic 110-S Straight Body Protein Skimmer is a unique looking skimmer featuring a small footprint, with the ‘S’ standing for Space Saving. Like all Reef Octopus skimmers it includes their very own Aquatrance pump and can be completely disassembled for cleaning.
The skimmer has been rated for the following:
This skimmer has been recommended for aquariums up to 132 gallons.
Great Features include:
Output is designed for bubble-free outflow.
Ease of control with its vented wedge valve output.
Ideal for space limited sumps.
Unique cylindrical design.
Skimmer size: 19.1″ high, 7.9″ x 6.1″ wide
Protein Skimmers - tanks up to 150+ gallons
Now we’re looking at the big boys! It will not be uncommon to find fish from larger species populating these larger volume tanks, or indeed, see amazing coral reef tanks showing off a dazzling display of colors. In the cases of both, the ability to keep the water as clean as possible becomes a top priority. SPS dominant tanks require water of the utmost cleanliness, and unlike smaller aquariums where the keeper is limited to only smaller fish, up to 150 gallons and above represents a balance between fish and coral. Even if you have chosen to go the fish only route and selected a predator tanks, or Angels which are known to be incompatible with coral, an appropriate skimmer will continue to be the best and most convenient way to remove dissolved organics from the water.
150+ Gallon Protein Skimmers - in detail below this comparison chart
SC Aquariums SCA-303 Protein Skimmer
Rated up to 150 Gallons
In-sump
- Collection cup with drain tube.
- 5 levels of flow adjustment.
Red Sea Reefer 600 Protein Skimmer
Rated from 160 to 500 Gallons
In-sump
- Foamveiw Window for easy bubble regulation.
- Features a Sicce skimmer pump
Reef Octopus Classic 152-S Protein Skimmer
Rated up to 158 Gallons
In-sump
- Classic super cone body shape of 6″
- Equipped with a Reef Octopus Aquatrance 1800s pinwheel pump
Icecap K1-160 Protein Skimmer
Rated from 120 to 200 Gallons
In-sump
- Includes EVair 600 skimmer pump
- Disassembles completely for easy cleaning.
Reef Octopus Classic 150-INT Protein Skimmer
Rated up to 150 Gallons
In-sump
- Precision Water Level Control Output Valve.
- Easy to Remove Cup with Drain.
Bubble Magus BM-Curve 7 Protein Skimmer
Rated from 185 to 238 gallons
In-sump
- Needle wheel pump with a venturi intake
- Air silencer for quiet operation
SC Aquariums SCA-303 Protein Skimmer
The SC Aquariums SCA-303 Protein skimmer comes with a large collection cup and drain off tube as standard. The cup is easily removed for cleaning and maintenance. The skimmer also includes 5 levels of water flow adjustment.
If you are interested in the bigger brother that can handle up to 180 gallons, click here for SC Aquariums SCA-302 Protein Skimmer.
The skimmer has been rated for the following:
This skimmer has been recommended for aquariums up to 150 gallons.
Great Features include:
Features an air silencer.
Includes a large collection cup with drain off tube.
A Atman PH2500 skimmer pump
Skimmer size: 23″ high, 10″ x 7″ wide.
Red Sea Reefer 600 Protein Skimmer
The Red Sea Reefer 600 Protein Skimmer is a top of the range skimmer that features the Foamview window on the collection cup allowing you to visually monitor the the bubbles rising to the collection cup without being obscured by skimmate. Also includes a manual neck cleaner to make the above achievable.
Check out our in depth review here.
To see the largest Red Sea Skimmer 900, capable of filtering up to 740 gallons, click here.
The skimmer has been rated for the following:
For SPS dominant tanks – up to 160 gallons
For mixed reef tanks – up to 320 gallons
For fish only tanks – up to 500 gallons
Great Features include:
All interconnecting joins are buffered by rubber components to minimise vibration and noise.
A large collection cup with drain off tubing and stop valve.
An Italian made Sicce skimmer pump.
Multi-assembly positions to suit differing sumps.
Skimmer size:
Orientation 1: 22″ high, 10.2″ x 9.4″ wide
Orientation 2: 22″ high, 11.4″ x 8.3″ wide
Reef Octopus Classic 152-S Protein Skimmer
The Reef Octopus Classic 152-S Protein Skimmer is the smaller of two models of ‘wine bottle shaped’ skimmers offered by Reef Octopus. Like all Reef Octopus skimmers it is powered by their own Aquatrance skimmer pump. It also features a bubble-free outflow.
The larger Reef Octopus Classic 202-S Protein Skimmer can be found here, and can handle up to 264 gallons.
The skimmer has been rated for the following:
This skimmer is recommended for aquariums up to 158 gallons
Great Features include:
Included in the Classic-S space saving range.
Easily disassembled for cleaning and maintenance.
Designed with a bubble-free outflow.
Automatic draining system when fitted with tubing.
Skimmer size: 20.7″ high, 10.4″ x 8.1″ wide.
Icecap K1-160 Protein Skimmer
The Icecap K1-160 Protein Skimmer features an EVair 600 skimmer pump and their novel pipeless output valve. The ‘beer bottle’ curve of the skimmer allows the air and water mix to stabilize naturally as it moves upwards within the reaction chamber.
The skimmer has been rated for the following:
Light load up to 200 gallons
Medium load up to 160 gallons
Heavy load up to 120 gallons
Great Features include:
Efficient and quiet operation.
Disassembles completely for maintenance and cleaning.
Small footprint for limited in-sump installation.
Skimmer size: 21″ high, 8.5″ x 6.7″ wide.
Reef Octopus Classic 150-INT Protein Skimmer
The Reef Octopus Classic 150INT Protein Skimmer includes a precision water level control output valve, and an easy to remove cup with drain which makes cleaning so much easier and stress free. Powered by Reef Octopus’ very own ‘air shredding’ pump.
This is the smaller cousin of the Reef Octopus Classic 200-INT Protein Skimmer which can process up to 317 gallons. More details here.
The skimmer has been rated for the following:
This skimmer is recommended for aquariums up to 211 gallons
Great Features include:
An easy to remove collection cup with drain.
Features Reef Octopus Aquatrance skimmer pump.
Precision water level control output valve.
Skimmer size: 22.1″ high, 12.4″ x 8.7″ wide.
Bubble Magus BM-Curve 7 Protein Skimmer
The Bubble Magus BM-Curve 7 Protein skimmer, named after the innovative ‘curve’ of the skimmer body that allows the foam to smoothly rise into the collection cup, and features a bubble plate that reduces turbulence in the reaction chamber.
If you are looking for a skimmer better suited to up to 400 gallons then click here to see the Bubble Magus BM-Curve 9 Protein Skimmer.
The skimmer has been rated for the following:
This skimmer is recommended for aquariums up to 240 gallons.
Great Features include:
An easy to remove collection cup with drain off valve.
Includes a ROCK DSP1000 skimmer needle wheel pump.
A compact footprint allowing for easy installation in a sump.
Skimmer size: 21″ high, 9.3″ x 7.9″ wide
Is a Protein Skimmer necessary for a saltwater aquarium?
Saltwater tanks have the potential to become uninhabitable quicker than freshwater aquariums. The reason for this is, unlike freshwater tanks that can routinely have the substrate thoroughly siphoned, and the filtration material replaced often, marine tanks cannot. In fact marine tanks rely on the substrate and rock in the tank to form the basis of ongoing primary filtration. By disturbing the sand or rock you risk doing more harm than good. The only direct method of removing any unwanted substances from the tank is either with filter sock/cups and a protein skimmer. Think of a skimmer as a 24/7 cleaner, constantly removing organics that could lead to an increase in either nitrates or phosphates.
Is a Protein Skimmer necessary for a nano reef?
Although smaller tanks are easier to maintain in terms of water changes, you are still bound by the inability to directly siphon the sand bed and move the rocks. By having a low volume skimmer installed to handle the waterborne organics, you are adding a positive method of filtration to an already very small body of water prone to fluctuation.
Is a Protein Skimmer a filter?
A protein skimmer isn’t a filter in the true sense of the word. Filters are defined by water passing through a fine interface, such as filter wool or a filter sock, which in turn traps particles and allows cleaner water to pass through. A skimmer is normally used in addition to, and after the filtration. Any microscopic particles that have eluded the mesh filters will find themselves being drawn into a body of fine bubbles within the cone of a skimmer. As they are forced upwards they become trapped on the surfaces of the expanding bubbles. Eventually the bubbles crest the rim of the skimmer cone and they fall over the edge, collected in the collection cup.
Why is my Protein Skimmer making bubbles?
When first adding a protein skimmer to a new saltwater aquarium, or even to an existing tank, skimmers have the potential to create an excessive amount of bubbles that can find their way into the main display.
First of all, skimmers need to be run-in. In the case of introducing a new skimmer to an existing tank, it may take a week or two for the bubble production to settle down. This may be that the running components are too ‘clean’, but after being exposed to the water for a couple of weeks they become very slightly coated and able process the waterborne organics better.
In the same vein, when being introduced to a completely new aquarium, not only does the skimmer need to be run in, but the water is also far too new and clean. It isn’t unknown for a skimmer to only settle in correctly after a month or more. The cleanliness, or viscosity of the water, needs to time bind with organic compounds. For lack of a better explanation, the water has to become slightly thicker in viscosity for the skimmer to work as intended.
Once both the skimmer has settled in, and the water has achieved the required viscosity the bubble production becomes far more efficient and far less capable of producing excessive bubbles.
Why is my skimmer making microbubbles?
Every reefer has experienced microbubbles caused by a skimmer at one time or another. Have a read through ‘Why is my protein skimmer making bubbles’ above.
Why is my Protein Skimmer overflowing?
In the beginning of their lives skimmers can be annoyingly finicky. The most common reason for a protein skimmer to overflow is because it is either a new skimmer, or a new skimmer in a new setup. In that case scroll up and read ‘Why is my protein skimmer making bubbles’. A skimmer overflows when the viscosity of the water is incorrect. Once the skimmer has settled in, or the water of a new tank has reached the desired viscosity, the skimmer will become less problematic.
However, skimmers do overflow at other times too.
Some well known treatments can cause your skimmer to go mad, one such treatment is Red Slime Remover. Although it does an amazing job at getting rid of cyanobacteria (once you have determined the cause) it can also leave your skimmer going mad for weeks on end.
Even feeding your corals a broadcast food such as Reef Roids can cause a skimmer to excessively bubble.
Another reason that you would find your skimmer overflowing is you have allowed your collection cup to fill to the brim. This may not have been through lack of maintenance. It may have been part way up, and while you were away it may have gone over. This can cause an immediate reaction with your skimmer going nuts.
How to stop your skimmer overflowing quickly
Annoying as it can be, occasionally you do simply need to let the skimmer calm down before you are able to do anything. This is normally when there is a stream of water running through the collection cup. The best advice is, if your collection cup includes a draining tube, open it up and allow it to drain. An overflowing skimmer also tends to spit salt water all over the inside of your cabinet. The best way to prevent this is to place a plastic shopping bag over the top of the skimmer. This will prevent the mess and the frustration.
You will come to a point when you think ‘When will this end?’. Well, when you are at the stage where the collection cup is filling up quickly, and the water is slightly dirty, you can act. Prepare some waterchange water and drain the skimmer cup as it fills. Take note of the volume of water your are draining out and replace it with newly mixed water. At worst, I have had to replace 1.5 gallons on my 145 gallon system. The process is quick at first, but becomes slower and slower as you remove this organic bound water with new water. Until eventually after about 40 minutes your skimmer is working normally again.
Why is my protein skimmer not foaming?
A protein skimmer will stop foaming when the air intake is blocked. The best way to check is to place your finger over the intake and see if it makes a difference to bubble production. If you notice no difference in the skimmer cone it is time to remove your skimmer and give it a good clean. The intake may be blocked by a snail, or build up of deposits.
