DIY skimnmer

[sergifed91]

I'm looking for an alternative for a skimmer. something more natural. I'm thinking getting a flower box for a 60 g tank. drill a hole for clear tubing and thena powerhead then drill another hole at the other end of the box and run that to my take. then what is inside the box is natural plants and biomax media and some poly fill to( I think that's what it's called). although this might work for a small bio load but will work for a while until I can decide upon a skimmer.

 

[Maggie321]

I would do nothing instead of that. Many tanks run without a skimmer. In fact many reefers think skimmers pull more good stuff out than bad. Think about it, you feed the tank only to pull the stuff right back out? I however think my skimmer helps my water quality. So I keep using it. But it's not going to make or break your tank. If you want one save up to get one and spend the time researching what kind you want. In the mean time, feed minimally, keep up with water changes consistently and watch parameters closely.

 

[Zephrant]

I generally promote skimmers too, but look in to an algae filter if you want to try something all-natural.

But be prepared for more use of Carbon and/or water changes.

 

[Mark Bianco]

Unless you have an incredibly huge bio load or you want to keep SPS a skimmer is overrated. A well balanced tank / Bio load with an appropriate clean up crew and as mentioned regular water changes. will keep some spectacular mixed reef tanks for years.