40G breeder filtration questions?!

[TYoung]

Hello,

I am planning my 40G breeder tank. I am planning on having about a 1.5lbs of live rock per gallon. I am trying to plan this tank without a sump and without a protein skimmer. I know that protein skimmers are important however I heard if you plan your tank properly and keep up on your tank you dont need one. I would love to hear some feedback on what you guys think.

Thanks!

[Chasman]

My 29gal that I've had going for about a year and a half is almost that way, although somewhat unintentional. I do not have a sump and the CPR protine skimmer I have is all but worthless. What I think has been my sucess is four things. (1) I do have a 3.5 gal HOB refugium run with a Rio 600 pump that houses cheato algae and a sand bed. It is lit for 12 hours on the off lighting cycle of my DT. (2) I have a Fluval 305 canister filter that I only run Chemi-Pure Elete in. (3) I have three Koralia power heads for a lot of water flow. (4) Purchased 40 pounds of very good quality live rock, precured at my LFS.

Also good husbandry makes a big difference. I use Tropic Marin salt and do frequent water changes. I have an ATO system that keeps the water level perfect, and use RO/DI water only. The bio load you keep is important too. I've been very careful about what I have put in the tank and have added things very slowly.

So I guess if you are patient and keep up with the maintenance, it can be done.

Just to let you know though. I'm up grading to a 50gal with a large sump and substantial protine skimmer. After a year plus, I want a more efficient system. I truley believe the sump and a good skimmer is the way to go. Battling algae, water quality, and very selective inhabitants has been a pain. Plus I want a bigger tank