Protein skimmer or algae scrubber?

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Jereli

Aquarium Advice Freak
Joined
May 24, 2010
Messages
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Location
Los Angeles, CA
Can some one fill me in on whether using one or the other is better? Any body using only a scrubber or using both? I currently have a protein skimmer for a 60 gallon reef with 20 gallon sump.
 
I have seen both systems at work although the system with the algae scrubber had few fish and nitrite levels kept at a minimum due to its lower feeding levels it also allowed the corals to feed more with out the the nutrients being skimmed out by a protein skimmer at the same time it also stabilizes your ph at night when your aquarium lights are off and your scrubber lights are on. A system with a protein skimmer can handle a heavier biological load and can easily remove waste and thus for lowering the nitrites and nitrates more effeciently. Corals are very sensitive to nitrites and a protein skimmer is almost a must for those involved in husbandry although some experimenting with scrubbers have succeeded quite well . I personally run both and I just turn off my protein skimmer when feeding my corals.
 
Thanks..was just wondering what would benefit me bettetr. I think ill just stick to the protein skimmer
 
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