14 best nano protein skimmers
Nano protein skimmers are important aquarium equipment used in marine and reef aquariums to remove organic waste and pollutants from the water. They are a type of filtration system that helps maintain the water quality in the aquarium, which is crucial for the health of fish, corals, and other aquatic life.
Here are some key points about nano protein skimmers:
Function: Nano protein skimmers, also known as skimmers or foam fractionators, work by creating a frothy mixture of air and water in a reaction chamber. As organic waste and other dissolved substances come into contact with the air bubbles, they adhere to the bubbles and rise to the top of the chamber, forming a thick foam. This foam is then collected and removed from the aquarium, effectively removing impurities from the water.
Size: Nano protein skimmers are designed for smaller aquariums, typically those with a capacity of 30 gallons or less. They are compact and space-saving, making them suitable for nano and pico reef tanks.
Installation: These skimmers are easy to install and can be placed inside the aquarium or in a sump, depending on the setup of your aquarium system. They usually come with a pump and can be adjusted to control the amount of air and water mixture, allowing you to fine-tune their performance.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the proper functioning of a nano protein skimmer. This includes cleaning the collection cup, adjusting the skimmer's settings, and occasionally replacing worn-out parts like the air stones or impellers.
Benefits: Nano protein skimmers help improve water clarity, reduce the levels of ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates, and promote better oxygen exchange in the aquarium.By removing organic waste before it decomposes, they also contribute to a healthier and more stable aquatic environment.
Compatibility: When selecting a nano protein skimmer, it's important to consider the specific requirements of your aquarium, including the bioload (the number and size of fish and corals) and the available space for installation. Different skimmers may be better suited to different types of setups.
In conclusion, nano protein skimmers are essential tools for maintaining water quality in small marine and reef aquariums. They play a crucial role in removing organic waste and pollutants, helping to create a healthier and more vibrant aquatic environment for your fish and corals. Proper installation and maintenance are key to their effective operation.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best nano protein skimmers on the market
AQUATICLIFE 115 Mini Internal Protein Skimmer/Filter for Saltwater Aquariums, 30 Gallon, Perfect for Small, Nano Tanks
AQUATICLIFE
Product description
- Compact size makes this skimmer ideal for mini-reef aquariums up to 30 gallons
- Allows for placement inside the aquarium or in the filtration compartment with ultra-quiet operation
- Proven needle-wheel impeller design increases the air-to-water contact
- Quick-lock design makes it easy to open housing for cleaning, and the built-in channel conceals the grounded power cord
- Includes an adjustable bracket that fits standard aquarium frames and suction cups for optional mounting inside the aquarium
- Compact size makes this skimmer ideal for mini-reef aquariums
- Placement inside aquarium provides quiet operation
- Proven needle-wheel impeller increases air-to-water contact
User questions & answers
| Question: | Will this fit in the first chamber of a nuvo fusion 20 gallon |
| Answer: | Hi John - We've never tried in the aquarium you mention. Like we state in the first bullet point on the Amazon product page it's really best you measure the filter box area on your tank and if you have a space at least 3.5" Wide x 3.5" Deep then our skimmer should fit as long as your tank doesn't have a hinged canopy since the skimmer will sit above the tank frame and the canopy wouldn't be able to close. Ken @ Aquatic Life |
| Question: | would this fit on a normal 20g reef tank |
| Answer: | yes it will fit on any standard 20 gallon tank you will just have to notch out a part of the plastic frame pretty easy i just used a pair of pliers |
| Question: | Can this be used in a 220V outlet |
| Answer: | No it uses 120v AC at 60Hz |
| Question: | Will this fit in the first chamber of a coralife bio cube 29 gallon tank. does it need to be modded? can you have the full hood/lid and close it |
| Answer: | It will fit without any modification, but i dont know about the hood. I have moded my tank to a rimless look, so i dont use the hood. |
Macro Aqua M-50 Mini Hang-on External Protein Skimmer, 60 Gallon
Ming Trading LLC
Product description
The Macro Aqua M-50 Hang-on Protein Skimmer is for up to 60 gallon aquariums (depends on stocking). This protein skimmer will effectively eliminate organic waste. The M-50 operates easily, where there will be no need to prime (just plug-and-play). The collection cup can be removed easily to dispose waste. This beautiful skimmer will surely please your tank.
- High quality protein skimmer for up to 60 gallon tank (depends on stocking)
- Small hang-on back skimmer; Water Flow: 238gph
- Effectively eliminates organic waste. Simply remove the collection cup to dispose tank waste
- Easy to install and operate. No priming required
- Needle-to-wheel impeller - increases air to water contact
User questions & answers
| Question: | About how long is the intank part that go in the tank |
| Answer: | I’d say it’s Approximately 7-8” deep down inside the tank total. |
| Question: | How can I get the overflowing bubbles from the top to stop? I think I have both nobs on the power setting but it still bubbles up and out |
| Answer: | Return it mine was working perfectly for about 3 months and then drained about 15 gallons out of my aquarium had to empty aquarium move it dry out all and replace carpet nightmare |
| Question: | Can someone give me the total width of the intake and discharge on the back? i need it to fit into an area 4.75" wide |
| Answer: | For a fluval edge 12g? I'm looking for the same thing. I've been looking for a year. Considering cutting off the glass top entirely. |
| Question: | Does this put out much of a water flow I’m planning to put seahorses in a 5 gallon nano tank and they can’t take much water flow has to be for the qui |
| Answer: | No it doesn't, but do not recommend for a 5 gal. Please don't place a seahorse in a 5 gallon. It should be 30 at the least |
Product features
Macro Aqua M-50
The Macro Aqua M-50 is one of the best protein skimmers for saltwater aquariums.
The Macro Aqua M-50 Hang-on Protein Skimmer is for up to 60 gallon aquariums (depends on stocking). This protein skimmer will effectively eliminate organic waste. The M-50 operates easily, where there will be no need to prime (just plug-and-play). The collection cup can be removed easily to dispose waste. This beautiful skimmer will surely please your tank.
Eshopps Protein Nano 10-35G Skimmer
Eshopps
Product description
Eshopps USA produces the quality pet products at amazing prices. Whether it is for aquatic health, or even your pets happiness with toys, Eshopps continues to design and adapt with the times, creating a happy loving environment for your loved ones.
- Quality tested, made in the USA with high grade material
- Safety and Cleanliness in mind with Eshopps Design
- Price competitive and extremely safe for your pets
User questions & answers
| Question: | What is the footprint of this skimmer |
| Answer: | The difference is the finish. Juliette is more metallic with ultra-thin metallic flakes (not glitter) and Champagne Blush has more of a classic finish. |
| Question: | Will this skimmer fit in the middle chamber of a JBJ 32g nanocube |
| Answer: | They are made in China. For inside slippers only. |
| Question: | Will it fit the biocube 29 gallon aquarium |
| Answer: | Dear, cutting off the insoles may affect the use of the sheepskin insoles, because we have no smaller size for you to exchange, you can try to cut, if it really doesn't work, please contact us on the order page, we will provide you with a satisfactory solution. Thanks. |
| Question: | Will it work on 32 gallon bio cube |
| Answer: | They fit in mine |
Innovative Marine BioSkim DC AIO Nano Protein Skimmer - Universal
Innovative Marine
- Fits Most AIO and Tank Alone Aquariums | Measure area of your aquarium First | Dimensions: 4" x 2.3" x 11.2" | Turn on Only After Tank has Completely Cycled or Excess Microbubbles Maybe Produced
- First: Measure Area of Your Tank to See if this skimmer will fit | Rated for up to 34 Gallons | Drop In Convenience | Fits into Coralife biocube 16 (middle chamber) and 32 (pump section)
- Low Voltage Direct Current Needle Wheel Pump | Adjustable Height Hanger | Questions About the pump? Please Message Us
- Waterline indicator | External Air Silencer | Dry Skim Convex Lid | DOES NOT COME WITH RUBBER FEET
- Bubble Plate Diffuser | Low Profile Cup | For Marine / Saltwater Use Only | *NOTE: Allow One Week to Break In and Remove Microbubbles | Amazon handles returned items and inspects/qualifies to resell them
User questions & answers
| Question: | Will this fit a nuvo 40 compartment in the back? If so which compartment |
| Answer: | I have it in compartment two in my nuvo 14. Might be similar? |
| Question: | Does it come with the rock for the bubbles |
| Answer: | The skimmer comes with the venturi pump to make the bubbles. It does not come with rock. |
| Question: | Does anyone know how high I should adjust the bubbles on this? Either overflow or no skim |
| Answer: | Take the top part out while it's running. There should be foam. Insert the top part with the lid and stop it right as you see the bottom of the cone start to fill with foam. It will end up funneling through the top and in to the container. It took a while for me to get mine just right. Hope this helps. |
| Question: | How much space is needed above the top of the tank? My tank is under a cabinet |
| Answer: | Depending on the size of the tank, no additional space is required. The skimmer can be used inside the tank, or adjusted to higher levels with the included hanging hook. The cup for debris can also have its height adjusted. If you needed it to, the total height can be no more than the stated dimensions. |
Innovative Marine Nuvoskim DC Protein Skimmer
Innovative Marine
- Fits: Innovative Marine NUVO Fusion 30L, Fusion 40, Fusion 50 Lagoon
- Dual Silencers (Internal & External) | Noise Reducing Rubber Feet | Enlarged Air Silencer Box
- Drop In Convenience | Bubble Plate Diffuser | Suspended Pump Design
- Low Profile Cup Design | Needle Wheel Impeller | Airline Management
- Convex Lid | Only for saltwater | Allow for one week of break in
User questions & answers
| Question: | I have been running this skimmer for five days now and have nothing in the collection cup. Anyone know why |
| Answer: | I can't hear it over my return pump |
| Question: | How you make it more dry? Do you move the ban higher |
| Answer: | Yes..in sump 6 to 8 inches deep in water |
| Question: | Does this model have the run dry pretection |
| Answer: | Dimensions are 2-9/16" L x 1-9/16" W x 2-9/16" H |
| Question: | Does this also fit the AIO 40 gallon |
| Answer: | The Pico 100 is roughly 1.7 inch wide, 1.6 inch deep and 2.3 inch tall. The Pico 160 is is roughly 1.7 inch wide, 1.6 inch deep and 3.3 inch tall. |
AquaMaxx NF-1 Nano Protein Skimmer - in-Sump
AquaMaxx
Product description
AquaMaxx NF-1 nano-skimmer has all the attributes to make it an awesome nano-skimmer! Great pump, great design, great materials, great craftsmanship, great efficiency and great performance! Heart of a Skimmer is the Pump All AquaMaxx skimmers feature modified high-quality Italian Sicce Pumps. While other skimmers may also use Sicce needlewheel pumps, AquaMaxx ‘Shark’ pumps go above and beyond. Each Sicce pump motor block is modified then fitted with a proprietary AquaMaxx needlewheel impeller to further enhance its performance. With the precise modifications and upgrades, performance is boosted much beyond that of a standard Sicce needlewheel pump. The upgraded AquaMaxx ‘Shark’ pump is capable of drawing significantly more air and chops it up to the optimum bubble size for maximum protein extraction. The pump and protein skimmer combinations deliver unprecedented performance and reliability. Accumulated protein and organics will be vigorously removed from your tank and your water quality will be much improved! Innovative Design AquaMaxx skimmers are computer engineered and outfitted with the latest filtration technology. AquaMaxx NF-1 skimmer features an advanced bubble chamber to efficiently mix air and water to extract the maximum amount of protein. Noise is minimized by the built-in air silencer as well as the silicone noise-dampeners on the magnetic mounts. Extensively tested outlet baffling system minimizes air bubbles from exiting the outlet. Unsurpassed Quality High-quality cell-cast acrylic is used throughout for maximum durability. Experienced craftsmen assemble each skimmer precisely to produce a top-notch product at very affordable prices. Features Modified and upgraded Italian Sicce Syncra Nano needlewheel pump Magnetic mount for easy installation and adjustment Ultra-quiet operation Efficient, durable and reliable Simple to set up and operate Cell-cast acrylic construction Compact foot print
- Magnetic Mount - Filtration Rating: up to 30 Gallons (light bioload) or 20 Gallons (heavy bioload)
- Footprint: 2-7/16" Deep x 4" Wide x 13-5/8" Tall. Pump included
- Pump power consumption: 1.6 watts, 120 Volt USA Plug
- Small and powerful Nano Protein Skimmer, Modified and upgraded Italian Sicce Syncra Nano needlewheel pump
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does it come with 220 volt plug |
| Answer: | Hello Melanie, than you for the question. There is not a set limit for how many you can link together. Essentially, as long as you are not exceeding the electrical ratings of the outlet or the switch that is being used to provide power, you can have as many as you want linked together. If you have any other questions, please reach out to us by following the link below. Our support number is located on the top right corner of the web page. When you call, please press option 4 and provide our Consumer Care Team with your personal ticket number 509351, so that we can resolve your issue promptly. We look forward to helping you. https://www.amazon.com/sp?_encoding=UTF8&asin=&isAmazonFulfilled=&isCBA=&marketplaceID=ATVPDKIKX0DER&orderID=&seller=A23REY5RU8UL5T&tab=&vasStoreID |
Comline DOC Protein Skimmer 9001
Tunze
- For fittings refer to user manual.
- Compact Size
- Energy Efficient
- Includes magnet mount
User questions & answers
| Question: | Will this fit in a biocube |
| Answer: | Yes. You need to remove plastic trim pieces first. Search for InTank’s demo for this exact skimmer. |
| Question: | Will this fit in one of the chambers for a jbj nano cube 12 deluxe |
| Answer: | Nope |
| Question: | It rated for 220-240V |
| Answer: | 110 on;y |
| Question: | has anyone used this in a jbj 24gal nanocube? if so does it work well with it? i am planning on taking top off and upgrading to led |
| Answer: | Good afternoon!! I we came from suppliers and used but in perfect working order. we have tested and works perfectly.Have a nice day... |
Reef Octopus NS-80 Nano Protein Skimmer
Reef Octopus
Product description
Filtration Handling 25 gallon – Light Filtration Demand 15 gallon – Medium Filtration Demand 10 gallon – Heavy Filtration Demand Powered by: OTP 200s Pinwheel Pump Body: 2" Footprint: 4" x 2.4" Height: 11" Manufacturer Warranty 1 year warranty on pump and 1 year on skimmer body
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does it fit in a JBJ 24 Gallon with the lid on |
| Answer: | It does have little because they are 7 free not water base only polishes have no smells are water base. All our products are 100% Made in USA and they are Vegan never ever tested on furry friends |
| Question: | Will this fit in the center chamber on a fluval evo |
| Answer: | Dries very smooth, not rough at all! I'm in love with this nail polish!!! |
| Question: | how far over the top of tank does it stand |
| Answer: | At this time, our polishes are all 3-Free. |
| Question: | Is this skimmer quiet or loud |
| Answer: | This polish falls into our "Ultra Metallics" family. If you do a search for "ILNP Ultra Metallics" here on Amazon you'll see them all! |
Marine Color RDC 150 Hanging On Internal Needle Wheel Protein Skimmer 40 Gallon Saltwater Aquarium
Marine Color
Product description
Product specification:
Item No.: RDC- 150
Skimmer type: Internal Hang on type
Size(Diameter / Height): 60/415 mm
Pump:Red Devil SP1
Power:7.8W
Air intake: Max 180L/H
Max. size of the tank (L): 40 Gallon
Recommended tank size: 15-40 Gallon
Footprint (MM): 150/90 mm not include the bracket
150/ 110 mm with bracket
- Fashionable design: All skimmer is built with high quality RED and white pipe fittings
- High Efficiency pin wheel pump
- Complete standard cone reaction chamber designs make the skimmer collects bubble smoothly and stable
- Saving area footprint design is especially suitable for using in small footprint sump.
- All material is made of high quality CAST ACRYLIC. And our professional laser engraving machine ensures the reliable quality and accuracy of every products
User questions & answers
| Question: | What depth of water is needed |
| Answer: | Unfortunately there isn't. But there is a reason. Every situation is different. I looked at the images on the page for which panel goes where. But spacing and height i watched a few YouTube videos of what others who cut there own sections did. The return section is important. It needs to have enough water to account for evaporation. But in my case I made the overflow section smaller than the other two as I wanted as big a fuge and return section as possible. |
| Question: | What are the dimensions of the portion that goes in sump |
| Answer: | No Mine did not. |
| Question: | will this work for a canister filter |
| Answer: | You control the flow rate or bubble height with the gate valve. |
| Question: | I'm interested I just need the measurements to see if it enters my back of the aquarium |
| Answer: | 120 volts. 60hz. |
JBJ Protein Skimmer for Marine Aquarium, 7 by 4 by 14-Inch
JBJ
Product description
The new JBJ rimless protein skimmer; Idel for rimless aquarium 20, 30 and 45-gallon;the compact foot print and is easy to install; effcient, durable and reliable with solid construction; provides with a skimmer that outperforms but one that also delivers daily leaving you worry -free with out micro bubbles; this sleekly designed protein skimmer is simple to set up, and easy to operate.
- Ideal for all rimless aquarium up to 45-gallon
- 2 years of free media replacement every 6 months
- Small foot print & simple to set up and easy operate
- Large column to allow for micro bubble evaporation
- Rimless mounting bracket with splash guard
User questions & answers
| Question: | Will this fit in the back chambers of the jbj 28 gallon nano cube without a good |
| Answer: | Yes |
| Question: | Would this fit a jbj |
| Answer: | Yes I have the Red Sea 32 gal cube and it works great in there |
Bubble Magus QQ1 Hang-On Nano Protein Skimmer
Bubble Magus
Product description
Efficient and ease-to-use skimmer for aquariums up to 25 gallons. Great features including a needle-wheel pump, easy to adjust body and foam bubble reducer on the outlet.
- Dimensions: 5.8"L x 4.4"W x 10.5"H
- Maximum Aquarium Thickness: 12mm
- Rated for tank up to 25gal
- Includes Rock SP600 Pump
User questions & answers
| Question: | How much space is needed above tank |
| Answer: | Min of 10 inches. However. You are going to want at least 24” to get the cup out. |
| Question: | will this work for a 37g tank |
| Answer: | It says in the description that it is for up to 25 gallons. |
| Question: | i need know what Is the weight in the hang-On because i have 29 gallons marineland nano with Cap and have 1/2 inch of up glass |
| Answer: | The skimmer weigh approximately 3.5lb empty. For proper support of this skimmer, all mounting surface must not exceed 1/2" in thickness. |
| Question: | How much space is need behind tank? What voltage is this, 110 or |
| Answer: | You need about 3.5 inches behind the tank. It runs on 110v. |
Reef Octopus Classic 110-INT Needle Wheel Protein Skimmer for Aquarium
TopDawg Pet Supply
Product description
Reef octopus pinwheel/needle wheel skimmers provide you with a high performance features in an easy to use package. Better foam production is provided by hailea otp pumps. New pinwheel impellers provide up to 100% improved performance. 4 inch cone-neck eases transition from bubbles into collection cup. Easy cleaning is provided by quick-release neck. Gate valve allows for easier water level adjustments. Designed for in sump use only.
- Coral vue octopus 4-inch needle wheel skimmer 100gal
- Reef octopus pinwheel/needle wheel skimmers provide you with a high performance features in an easy to use package
- New pinwheel impellers provide up to 100% improved performance
User questions & answers
| Question: | Will this work hang on aquarium? I don't have a sump |
| Answer: | Hello ER, No this needs to be in a sump and in about 8inch of water. There are some hang on the back skimmers though, just keep looking. |
| Question: | Will this fit a Waterbox 35.1 sump |
| Answer: | not too sure |
| Question: | model number is INT which is installed inside sump but photo is an EXT which is installed outside. Which one is it |
| Answer: | No. The photo is a INT. It is a Internal sump protein Skimmer. |
| Question: | How deep does the water have to be in the sump |
| Answer: | According to the enclosed directions: 180-200 mm/7-7.9 inches for the 110-INT 200-220 mm/7.9-8.7 inches for the 150-INT & 200 INT |
Reef Octopus Classic 100-HOB Protein Skimmer
Reef Octopus
Product description
The Classic 100-HOB is a proverbial favorite amongst hang-on back skimmer users capable of filter
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does this one work well on a 75 gallon tank or do I need to go with the 1000 model |
| Answer: | Looks like you have to pry it off. But don’t know for sure |
| Question: | How wide is it, how much is the width and depth I need in the opening on top of my tank |
| Answer: | I don’t use bracket. I set it on top of my over hang filter cover. |
| Question: | If i have only 4 inches of space between back of tank and wall, will the reef octopus 100 hob fit |
| Answer: | I bought it for vacation use but being lazy, have been using it for the last 6 months or so continuously. Still working great. |
| Question: | Does anyone know the size of the air hose? I need to replace mine |
| Answer: | It doesn’t use batteries you have to charge it with the UBS cord That came with the automatic feeder |
Coralife Super Protein Skimmer with Pump
Central Garden & Pet
Product description
The Coralife Super Skimmer 65G has a high-performance foam fractionator designed with a patented needle-wheel impeller, an aspirating venturi and is effective at removing dissolved organic compounds from water. The needle-wheel system creates a spiraling vortex of water and micro bubbles inside the reaction chamber where the bubbles attract fine proteins and organic compounds and deposit them in the collection cup. This unit is designed for aquariums up to 65 gallons, and adaptable for both hang-on aquarium mounting or in-sump setup.Large neck for efficient foam production and control
- Patented needle wheel aspiration system
- Wide neck collection cup with easy twist feature for effortless cleaning
- Dual injection inlets increase bubble/water contact time
- Bubble production diffuser to prevent the flow of micro-bubbles into main aquarium
- Can be used in sump or with hang on mounting bracket
- Refer user manual for troubleshooting steps
User questions & answers
| Question: | Did you get the model just like the picture (Red and Yellow Box) or the newest model (blue and purple box |
| Answer: | I received the blue and purple box. |
| Question: | will this be ok on a 55gal tank |
| Answer: | Yes, I am using that on my 55 gal tank, sometimes I even turn it off during the day time. |
| Question: | I bought this skimmer - 65 gallon version about 6 months ago and now it is not working. Does this have any sort of warranty |
| Answer: | I have all of the versions of the coralife super skimmers 65g, 125g, and 220g. I have found first off, they are good skimmers, they do need regular cleaning and maintenance, especially with salt buildup in the air line leading into the pump, salt builds up over time and slowly chokes off the air supply to the needle wheel impeller. I have found the the 65g does require cleaning a little more often than the other models. I hope this helps, clean out the pump, remove and scrub off the impeller being careful not to bend the needle wheel. |
| Question: | hello , what is voltage 220 v or 110 v |
| Answer: | It was purchased as a gift for use in USA so it is 120V check with manufacture for multi voltage use |
Product features
Coralife Super Protein Skimmer with Pump, 65 Gallon
The Coralife Super Skimmer 65G has a high-performance foam fractionator designed with a patented needle-wheel impeller, an aspirating venturi and is effective at removing dissolved organic compounds from water. The needle-wheel system creates a spiraling vortex of water and micro bubbles inside the reaction chamber where the bubbles attract fine proteins and organic compounds and deposit them in the collection cup. This unit is designed for aquariums up to 65 gallons, and adaptable for both hang-on aquarium mounting or in-sump setup.
Coralife Super Protein Skimmer with Pump, 125 Gallon
The Coralife 125G Super Skimmer is a high-performance foam fractionator designed with a patented needle-wheel impeller and aspirating venturi. An improved energy saving pump increases the performance of the skimmer without increasing power demand. The needle-wheel system creates a spiraling vortex of water and micro bubbles inside the reaction chamber where the bubbles attract fine proteins and organic compounds and deposit them in the collection cup. The result is a clean and healthy aquarium environment.
Coralife Super Protein Skimmer with Pump, 220 Gallon
The Coralife 220G Super Skimmer With Needle Wheel Water Pump Up To 220 Gallon Tank. Include An Easy Twist Collection Cup Water Level Adjustment Dial and Bubble Production Diffuser. Remove organics from the tank before they break down.
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