Triton sump baffles

[TimT]

Can anyone tell me what the function is of the last baffle in the sump (the one between skimmer section and return). Is there any reason why these two separate sections can't be joined?

 

[Tim@Triton]

The idea behind the last baffle is to increase the contact time between the proteins in the water and the skimmer. Proteins rise naturally in the water column and without the baffle or having the baffle set so the water flows over reducing the efficiency of the skimmer.