Protien skimmer???

[mrtuskfish]

I'd go with something with a small footprint like an Urchin by Aqua C.

I agree; I've become convinced that Aqua-C makes both the best in-sump and hang-on skimmers for the money...and their tech help is great.

As to why--ever notice the slimy foam at the beach? That is pretty much the same protein mix that a skimmer removes.

 

[mrtuskfish]

I have an AquaC Remora. I've heard a lot of comments about this. I've had it running for a few days now and there is nothing in the collection cup. But then again, the tank has no live rock yet, just water.

If there is just water, there is nothing to skim. Water does not produce protein; fish and all other organisms do. All skimmers take a while to kick in; they don't need to be your 1st piece of equipment. A FOWLR can do well without one, but once you have one, you'll never go without.