Filter?

[luke865]

I see on the TBS website they mention that "you need no sump or wet dry, although these won't hurt the tank..."

I am just starting to investigate saltwater but have had freshwater fish for many years and would not think of going without a filter, am I missing something?

Let me know if my thought process is correct, if I buy "the package" this simulates a perfect or near perfect biological balance and the tank filters itself?

Thanks

 

[Fountainhead]

I think most people would consider a protein skimmer to be a standard requirement, though in theory the biological filtration provided by the live rock and sand (TBS or other) could maintain the tank on its own.

A basic setup would have live rock/sand and a protein skimmer, with or without a sump. Other forms of mechanical filtration are not necessary and in some cases may be detrimental.

 

[luke865]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=8414173#post8414173 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Fountainhead
Other forms of mechanical filtration are not necessary and in some cases may be detrimental.

Do you know of any links that I could read or any other information about why it would be detrimental?

Thanks

 

[ybenormal]

Some of the more experienced reefkeepers have great success with LR, live sand and a refugium--no mechanical filter or skimmer at all. For most of us common folks LR and a skimmer are pretty much required and the need for a live sandbed is hotly debated with pros and cons on both sides.

Use of canister and HOB mechanical filters is discouraged in SW tanks, especially reef tanks. Google "aquarium nitrate factory" and you'll find tons of information on this.