I'm starting to consider an upgrade to my current skimmer. I have some algae on the rocks, however the tank is less than 6 months old (I moved the skimmer over from my old tank).
150G tank (5x2x2) + 40G sump. I have about 110lbs of rock in the tank.
Currently using Vertex Omega 150
I'm considering either a Skimz SM201 or a Vertex Omega 180i or 200i (200 doesn't seem to have great reviews).
My current stock list is:
2 x Clarkii Clowns w/ 4" RBTA
2 x Flame Angel Pair
2 x Randall's Goby
3 x Lyretail Anthias
1 x Bluethroat Trigger (4")
1 x Whitetail Bristletooth Tang (3")
1 x CBB (3")
1 x Coris Wrasse (2-3")
I have several LPS that are thriving very well (noticeable growth)
My Nitrates tend to sit around 2 (which I don't mind). PO4 requires about 1 cup of High Capacity GFO that I replace every 2 weeks. I've seen it anywhere from .09 to .02, so mileage varies.
I do a 34 gallon brute can of water change weekly (it's not full to the top, but rather the inside lip inside the can). I estimate about 25g.
Rock was all dry rock when I started (a mix of marco rock and BRS reef saver).
So my questions are:
Is my skimmer an issue? I'm starting to get a bit nervous that it's a bit under sized which I'd rather fix now than deal with issues down the road. I've been perfectly happy with my Vertex, however the i series doesn't seem to have quite the following the 150 does. I've never used a Skimz and not much info out there to help sway my decision.
What level would you consider my bioload. I feed frozen once a day and pellets twice a day. CBB eats LRS Fish Frenzy very well so I tend to overfeed a bit (between a nickel and quarter size piece) to ensure he gets ample.
I wouldn't mind more fish, but I also am quite pleased with the temperment I've got going now (occasional squabble but no torn fins).
150G tank (5x2x2) + 40G sump. I have about 110lbs of rock in the tank.
Currently using Vertex Omega 150
I'm considering either a Skimz SM201 or a Vertex Omega 180i or 200i (200 doesn't seem to have great reviews).
My current stock list is:
2 x Clarkii Clowns w/ 4" RBTA
2 x Flame Angel Pair
2 x Randall's Goby
3 x Lyretail Anthias
1 x Bluethroat Trigger (4")
1 x Whitetail Bristletooth Tang (3")
1 x CBB (3")
1 x Coris Wrasse (2-3")
I have several LPS that are thriving very well (noticeable growth)
My Nitrates tend to sit around 2 (which I don't mind). PO4 requires about 1 cup of High Capacity GFO that I replace every 2 weeks. I've seen it anywhere from .09 to .02, so mileage varies.
I do a 34 gallon brute can of water change weekly (it's not full to the top, but rather the inside lip inside the can). I estimate about 25g.
Rock was all dry rock when I started (a mix of marco rock and BRS reef saver).
So my questions are:
Is my skimmer an issue? I'm starting to get a bit nervous that it's a bit under sized which I'd rather fix now than deal with issues down the road. I've been perfectly happy with my Vertex, however the i series doesn't seem to have quite the following the 150 does. I've never used a Skimz and not much info out there to help sway my decision.
What level would you consider my bioload. I feed frozen once a day and pellets twice a day. CBB eats LRS Fish Frenzy very well so I tend to overfeed a bit (between a nickel and quarter size piece) to ensure he gets ample.
I wouldn't mind more fish, but I also am quite pleased with the temperment I've got going now (occasional squabble but no torn fins).
