3 Gallon and a skimmer??

[Sisterlimonpot]

Alright all you nano guru's, I'm setting up a 3 gallon nano at work with only a hang on back filter. the tank will have mainly zoanthids and 1 small fish.

My question is, should I incorporate a skimmer in this build or not?

If so what skimmer would be the best for a 3 gallon tank?

Thanks Guys.

 

[x3thelast]

nah you'll be fine with a HOB. ive got a 4 gallon mixed with a clam, im skimless. just using seagel/purigen/chaeto. just watch your feedings and you'll be fine with weekly water changes

good luck.

 

[Sisterlimonpot]

Ok, I have decided that I really think that this tank would benefit from a skimmer, what is the consensus on the type of skimmer that would work best for a 3 gallon tank?

Thanks
Jimmy

 

[Forrest3320]

i think any skimmer for a 3 gallon is over kill but if you want one that bad the tunzes or AquaticLife Internal Mini Protein Skimmer is only one i seen small enough but even that will take up a good protion of the tank

 

[corman1313]

I would also pass on the skimmer for that size. I didnt have one on my 3 gallon and it was fine. I recently added the Aquaticlife mini to my 7.5 cube but i would only use it if you have a sump because as many others said it puts out tons of micro bubbles, even after 2 weeks, much less now but still there.

 

[Malign Reefer]

I had a 3g pico and just used the HOB filter and water changes weekly and was awesome.

 

[reef1906]

I have a 5 gal pico and its awesome without a skimmer. I think it may be overkill but hey it'll be fun setting it up and seeing how it works out.

 

[Sisterlimonpot]

My problem is surface algae is forming a nice thick layer and it's causing low pH due to lack of oxygen. If skimming is a no, then I have to devise a way to promote surface skimming. I tried pointing the power head up to allow for some surface agitation but all that does is create a small clean surface right where the water is flowing. I haven't added any live stock yet, I am still cycling the tank so I may just take the water out and add an overflow to skim off the surface algae.

What do you guys think about that? Or is there a better way?

 

[Michigan Mike]

Get a stronger powerhead

 

[Sisterlimonpot]

any stronger and it will only be a 2 gallon nano.

 

[x3thelast]

They have a surface skimming attachment for the aquaclear

 

[kara13]

I had the AquaticLife mini and didn't have any problems with bubbles. I don't think you will need one. But if you do, it works.