A protein skimmer is an essential piece of equipment for saltwater/marine aquariums. Its primary function is to remove dissolved organic compounds (DOCs) and other harmful substances from the water column before they can be converted into nitrates by beneficial bacteria. While skimmers do not remove nitrates directly, they significantly reduce the biological load, helping maintain a clean and healthy tank environment.
How Protein Skimmers Work
Protein skimmers use thousands of tiny air bubbles to extract organic waste from your aquarium water:
A pump draws water into the skimmer, often via a venturi tube that introduces atmospheric air.
Instead of a standard impeller, skimmer pumps use needle-wheel impellers with multiple thin fins, efficiently creating microbubbles.
As bubbles rise through the water column, electrically charged proteins and DOCs adhere to the bubbles.
These bubbles carry the organic waste to the top of the skimmer, where it is collected in the collection cup, effectively removing harmful compounds from your aquarium.
This process prevents organic compounds from breaking down into nitrates, maintaining water quality and reducing the risk of algae growth.
Can I Use a Protein Skimmer in a Tropical Tank?
Yes, you can use a protein skimmer in a tropical aquarium, but its efficiency will be lower than in a saltwater tank. Skimmers rely on foaming, which occurs less effectively in freshwater. For tropical tanks, surface skimmers are available to help remove floating debris and improve water clarity.
Why Does My Protein Skimmer Produce So Many Bubbles?
The microbubbles increase surface area, giving more space for DOCs and proteins to adhere.
The proteins and DOCs stabilize the bubbles, similar to soap bubbles, creating foam in the collection cup.
This foam represents the accumulated organic waste being removed from your aquarium efficiently.
The higher the bubble count, the more effective your protein skimmer is at removing dissolved organic compounds.