PROTEIN SKIMMERS
Protein Skimming (air fractionisation) is a very important process for highly-populated saltwater aquariums, or for reef aquariums where the highest quality water conditions are favorable. The skimmer removes organic materials from the water before they enter the nitrogen cycle, thus lowering the overall nitrate level and keeping all the aquarium inhabitants in good health.
FUNCTION
The pump draws air in through a small tube, shreds it into tiny bubbles and mixes it with the aquarium water. The bubbles act like small magnets and pick up organic material within the water. When the mixture reaches the skimmer chamber, the air bubbles rise to the top and burst, depositing the organic material into the collection cup. The cleaned water returns to the aquarium.
SUMPS
On our larger systems we incorporate a sump tank. The sump can be used as a refugium for the many different animals that help clean the aquarium; in the sump they can live and prosper out of reach of predators in the main aquarium. The sump can also house unsightly equipment, leaving your aquarium looking more natural.
We build our own custom sumps, with custom tops. Many store-bought sumps allow water to evaporate and condense on walls or heating ducts behind the aquarium, ultimately causing damage.
