I need advice- cycling now. My LFS has me confused

[prissysmom]

Hi all,

I'm having an issue understanding if canister filters are needed. My LFS led me to believe I had to have one ($179.00) so I have it running with 80 pounds of LR and a protein skimmer.
Is this overkill?

Can I run my FOWLR tank with only LR and a protein skimmer?
I hear about needing carbon too so I am confused on where that would go. I do not have a sump.


Thank for the advice. I am adding my sand in today. I am going to Petco because the LFS was part of a chain and there aren't any other places near me. Any advice on sand would be appreciated. I'd rather not get taken in again!