[c_gil]

Just a few questions about protein skimmers. I have put off getting a protein skimmer for my 50 gal FOWLR tank. My tank is about three months old now. Am I making a mistake by not having one by now? What is the benefit for having one? What would be a good one to get? Also when I have asked some people about when do you run them I have heard a few different things. For example someone told me to have the skimmer always running and other told me just on the weekends or a few days a week. So when is it ideal to have the skimmer on?

[msbdiving]

I will be the first to admit I'm not an expert so don't take my word as gospel truth. I do however have a 40g with about 30lbs live rock and excellent water quality. I still decided to put a skimmer in since I knew I was wanting to go the coral route. I went cheap (bad choice, but have a budget) and got the prizm. Though I thought water was clean, I am still pulling stuff out. Nothing too heavy but still don't want the gunk in there. I run mine full time though probably dont need to. I use it also for water movement. If I were to get another one, I have heard a lot of great things about the Remora Aqua-C. Not much more expensive but better in quality (strictly from research through reviews).

[barbra]

Skimming removes the gunk from your tank that isnot water soluble. You know the yellow foam that forms on the beach from wave action? That is protein skimming in action.