Protein Skimmer?

[Francois]

Hey users,

So, I'm on my way to set up a 55 gallon FOWLR.

However, I have a marineland penguin 350 already, do I need a protein skimmer? What change am I gonna SEE if I have a protein skimmer?

Then, can I reuse the sand I have with my cichlid tank? I will wash it A LOT!!!
And finally, since I wanna save money to buy fish, I plan to make my own live rock. I've heard people using Rock salt, crushed coral, crushed oyster shells, sand...
What are the best "ingredients" that I need to make my own DIY live rock?

[leebca]

First, you'll need an idea of setting up a FOWLR: Setting Up a FOWLR Aquarium

Next you will need to learn what live rock really is before you 'think' you can make it: What is Live Rock, Anyway?

What you're proposing to make is rock, not live rock. Making rock is okay. The substrate needs to be one that is suitable for marine life. Be sure it is right before you go through the effort of cleaning it so well.

[Francois]

Ok, my sand is aragonite, so it should be fine if I clean it.

Yes, I plan to make real live rock, I will cure it and all that for prbly three months.

But the question I really need help with is the one about the protein skimmer, I read your article about setting up a fowlr setup, but I just want to have a clear answer of whether I need a skimmer or not, and if so, what change will I see

[leebca]

A protein skimmer and activated carbon act together to improve water quality. It is especially useful in a FOWLR system where waste quantity is high. It keeps the water clear and reduces bacterial content.

And you're still not making live rock.

[Francois]

why am I still not making live rock?

[leebca]

If you'd read the link I provided you about live rock, you'd know the answer.

When dead coral is used for decoration, we don't call it 'live coral' just because it has bacteria on it. The rock you're making will only contain bacteria not all the other living things that live rock has. You are making base rock. Please read that link.