12 best pico protein skimmers
Pico protein skimmers are a type of specialized filtration equipment designed for use in small marine aquariums, particularly those with limited space. These skimmers are part of the broader category of aquarium pumps and filters, and they play a crucial role in maintaining the water quality in marine environments.
A protein skimmer, also known as a foam fractionator, is a device that removes organic compounds, proteins, and other contaminants from aquarium water.It does this by creating a column of bubbles in a chamber, which allows organic molecules to adhere to the surface of the bubbles. These bubbles then rise to the top of the skimmer, forming a foam that can be collected and removed from the water, along with the contaminants.
Pico protein skimmers are specifically designed for "pico" aquariums, which are very small marine setups, typically less than 5 gallons in size. Due to the limited water volume in pico aquariums, maintaining high water quality is crucial, and protein skimmers offer an effective way to achieve this.
When selecting a pico protein skimmer, factors such as the tank size, water flow rate, and compatibility with the aquarium's setup should be considered. It's important to choose a skimmer that is appropriately sized for the specific needs of the aquarium.
Overall, pico protein skimmers are valuable tools for hobbyists who keep small marine aquariums, as they help ensure a healthy and stable environment for fish and other marine organisms. They contribute to the overall well-being and longevity of the aquatic ecosystem within the confines of a small tank.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best pico protein skimmers on the market
GankPike Hang-on Protein Skimmer with Pump for Aquarium, 13 Gallon
GankPike
Product description
protein skimmer for saltwater tank
- Compact design for nano reef aquarium.
- Needle wheel power head included.
- Removable collection cup. Adjustable air intake dial.
- Hanging bracket and suction cups.
- Suitable for aquarium up to 13 gallon.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Skimmer dimension |
| Answer: | I take the vacuum end out of the aquarium and hold it up above the height of the faucet and let the water running through the pump to suck the water out of the tube. I do the same thing to clear the tube after refilling the tank. There may still be a little moisture in the tube but it has not been any problem. |
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.
Coralife Biocube Protein Skimmer
Central Garden & Pet
Product description
The Coralife Biocube Protein Skimmer removes dissolved organics from the saltwater. This unit features pump, adjustable air flow, and an easily assessible removable collection cup. Installation is quick and simple. The skimmer is designed to work with BioCube units; however, it includes a hanging clip that allows easy positioning for standard saltwater aquariums up to 32 gallons in size.
- Slender design, self-priming pump, cone shaped inner chamber assists in active skimming
- Age range description: All Life Stages
- Package Dimensions : 6.1 L x 28.4 H x 12.7 W (centimeters)
- Made in China
User questions & answers
| Question: | Will the skimmer fit under the upgraded Biocube 32 hood |
| Answer: | Bubble Magus has a 1 year warranty on skimmer and pump motor. The impeller in the pump is 6 months warranty. There is no warranty on the Ceramic Shaft. The pumps are not bad on price, 50 bucks you can get a new pump and impeller out of warranty. The impeller only is 30 dollars. We have been pretty impressed with the Bubble Magus brand, one of the better entry level skimmers. |
| Question: | Do you need a air pump |
| Answer: | Yes, the pump intake and outlet can be inline or perpendicular. It's great for flexibility |
| Question: | will this work with a 14 gallon bio cube with no lid |
| Answer: | Yes, but it will take the company that sells them a month to get anything to you |
| Question: | I plugged this and ran an hour, i dont see any bubbles or foam buildup. should i close air or open more |
| Answer: | I am using this unit with a max water level of 7 inches. It runs better for me at around 5.5-6.5 inches and skims very well. I have a total tank volume of 123gallons. As others have mentioned, the higher water level(in some systems) is better. My water is almost too clean for my mixed coral system so I add reef snow and other sups with the skimmer off for a few hours. |
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. |
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. |
IceCap K1-100 Protein Skimmer
IceCap
Product description
Modern Design and Functionality The IceCap K1 100 is a remarkably compact skimmer that offers a new level of refined filtration for marine aquariums ranging from 40 to 80 gallons. All aspects of the skimmer were implemented to surpass many challenges other skimmer on the market miss out on. Compact & Built to Last Master crafted from robust PVC and high quality acrylic. All components are marine safe and refined in every aspect to provide the latest enhancements in foam fractionation and the highest in quality. The elegant “Beer Bottle" curve of the skimmer body naturally stabilizes the air and water mix as they transition upward within the reaction chamber. An impressively compact footprint makes it the ideal candidate for tight sump applications. Every aspect of the skimmer disassembles completely for easy service. Quiet Performance & Control At the Core of the IceCap K1, you will find the EVair 400 skimmer pump built to be highly durable and packing a ton efficient performance. It's easy grip and twist-Locking access to the pinwheel for easy service. The pipeless output offers fine-tuning and trouble free underwater outflow plus quiet operation. Our pipeless design not only saves on space but also allows the outgoing water to exit on the side of the skimmer and below the water surface providing splash-free circulation in the sump. Located much lower in the reaction chamber, the unique bubble dispersing chamber offers a multi stage diffusion of water, additional contact time for enhanced foam stability. IceCap K1-130 Technical Specs Skimmer Body: 4in Footprint: 4.5in x 7.5in Total Height: 19in Cup Drain Size: 8mm ID / 12mm OD
- Distinctive Turbulence Reducing Body
- Solid PVC & Acrylic Construction
- In-Sump Installation Only
- Bubble Dispersant Chamber
- Footprint: 4.5" x 7.5" | Reaction Chamber: 4" | Height: 19"
User questions & answers
| Question: | If this is in my sump how deep do I need to maintain the water in the chamber |
| Answer: | While I do not have this model (I have the 160 and 180), you could attach a 1/2" tube to the output. There isn't a place to attach air line tubing. I place the pump near the surface of the water - angling the output tube to the water level - as that is how you get more oxygen into the tank -- the added surface movement. You might be able to find out more information about these pumps on the Hydor web site (I haven't looked). |
Macro Aqua M-60 Hang-on External Protein Skimmer, 120 Gallon
Macro Aqua
Product description
The Macro Aqua M-60 Hang-on Protein Skimmer is for up to 120 gallon aquariums (depends on stocking). This protein skimmer will effectively eliminate organic waste. The M-60 operates easily. 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 120 gallon tank (depends on stocking)
- Big hang-on back filter; Water Flow: 320gph; Air Flow Rate: 80gph
- Effectively eliminates organic waste. Simply remove the collection cup to dispose tank waste
- Easy to install and operate
- Needle-to-wheel impeller - increases air to water contact
User questions & answers
| Question: | v or 220v |
| Answer: | 110v |
| Question: | HI ，could you please tell me that what the dimension of 120 gallon aqurium please |
| Answer: | There usually 6 feet long 20 inches wide and 24 inches tall |
| Question: | How far away from the wall should the tank be ? how much room does it need |
| Answer: | Roughly 7-9 inches to give enough space for the skimmer to also be separated from the wall by about an inch orso |
| Question: | Has anyone had good luck with this skimmer? I like the style of this skimmer but have read mix reviews. Is it a bad skimmer or just operator error |
| Answer: | Yes I had this model for about 2 years and it woks great, |
Product features
Macro Aqua M-60
The Macro Aqua M-60 is one of a kind.
Macro Aqua protein skimmers boast performance and easy installation. It is designed with simplicity in mind to satisfy the skimming needs of saltwater aquarium hobbyists. Included pump features a needle-wheel impeller that vigorously mixes air and water to create a flurry of waste-removing bubbles. Improves water quality and oxygen level in saltwater aquariums. Removable collection cup allows convenient skimmer maintenance and disposal of collected waste material. Adjustment knob fine-tunes water level within the protein skimmer reaction chamber for optimal performance. Quality acrylic construction. Recommended for 50 - 120 gallons aquarium. 300L of air draw with 11W of power used.
Reef Octopus Classic BH-1000 Protein Skimmer & Smart Skimmer Security Overflow Protector Bundle
Reef Octopus
Product description
This package combines the Reef Octopus Classic BH-1000 Protein Skimmer and the AutoAqua Smart Skimmer Security. Use your Reef Octopus Classic BH-1000 with the reassurance that if the skimmer cup were to overflow the AutoAqua Smart Skimmer Security sensor would turn off the Reef Octopus Skimmer Pump. The Reef Octopus Classic BH-1000 Protein Skimmer is a favorite hang-on back skimmer. Capable of filtering aquariums from 78 to 130 gallons, the Classic BH-1000 features an easy to install and operate design in which the pump is mounted outside the aquarium. To install, simply place the skimmer on the back of the aquarium, mount the pump in place, adjust the intake strainer and it's ready to skim. Pump: Aquatrance 1000 Pinwheel. Footprint: 8" X 3.5", 17" tall. Installation: Hang-on. The AutoAqua Smart Skimmer Security uses the uniquely-designed contactless optical sensor to prevent the protein skimmer from overflowing. No moving parts to service or fail making this unit incredibly reliable. A magnetically coupled sensor makes it super easy to install and adjust the desired level in the collection cup.
- This package combines the Reef Octopus Classic BH-1000 Protein Skimmer and the AutoAqua Smart Skimmer Security. Use your Reef Octopus Classic BH-1000 with the reassurance that if the skimmer cup were to overflow the AutoAqua Smart Skimmer Security sensor would turn off the Reef Octopus Skimmer Pump.
- The Reef Octopus Classic BH-1000 Protein Skimmer is a favorite hang-on back skimmer. Capable of filtering aquariums from 78 to 130 gallons, the Classic BH-1000 features an easy to install and operate design in which the pump is mounted outside the aquarium. To install, simply place the skimmer on the back of the aquarium, mount the pump in place, adjust the intake strainer and it's ready to skim.
- Pump: Aquatrance 1000 Pinwheel. Footprint: 8" X 3.5", 17" tall. Installation: Hang-on.
- The AutoAqua Smart Skimmer Security uses the uniquely-designed contactless optical sensor to prevent the protein skimmer from overflowing. No moving parts to service or fail making this unit incredibly reliable. A magnetically coupled sensor makes it super easy to install and adjust the desired level in the collection cup.
IceCap K1-130 Protein Skimmer
IceCap
Product description
Footprint: 7.3" x 5.6" | Reaction Chamber: 5" | Height: 19" Skimmer Pump: EVair 400 80 GALLONS - Heavy Load 100 GALLONS - Medium Load 140 GALLONS - Light Load IMPRESSIVE PERFORMANCE - REMARKABLY SMALL FOOTPRINT Distinctive Turbulence Reducing Body Solid PVC & Acrylic Construction Bubble Dispersant Chamber Novel Pipeless Output Valve Efficient & Quiet Operation Disassembles Completely for Easy Cleaning & Maintenance In-Sump Installation Only The IceCap K1 130 is a remarkably compact skimmer that offers a new level of refined filtration for marine aquariums ranging from 80 to 140 gallons. All aspects of the skimmer were implemented to surpass many challenges other skimmer on the market miss out on. COMPACT & BUILT TO LAST Master crafted from robust PVC and high quality acrylic. All components are marine safe and refined in every aspect to provide the latest enhancements in foam fractionation and the highest in quality. The elegant “Beer Bottle" curve of the skimmer body naturally stabilizes the air and water mix as they transition upward within the reaction chamber. An impressively compact footprint makes it the ideal candidate for tight sump applications. Every aspect of the skimmer disassembles completely for easy service.
- The IceCap K1-130 is a remarkably compact skimmer that offers a new level of refined filtration for marine aquariums ranging from 80 to 140 gallons. All aspects of the skimmer were implemented to surpass many challenges other skimmers on the market miss out on.
- For aquariums up to: 140 gallons, light bio load; 100 gallons, medium bio load; and 80 gallons, heavy bio load.
- In-sump installation only. Recommended sump water height: 6" to 8". Footprint: 5.6" X 7.3", 19" tall.
- Includes EVair 400 skimmer pump
- Distinctive turbulence reducing body. Solid PVC & acrylic construction. Bubble dispersant chamber. Novel pipeless output valve.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Is the pump noisy |
| Answer: | You can use either 3/8 inch OD tubing which will fit inside outlet pipe or 1/2 ID tubing which will fit over outside of outlet. Both will work. Just note head height for this pump is only around 24 inches. but they are great pumps! |
IceCap K1-160 Protein Skimmer for 120-200 gals
IceCap
Product description
Footprint: 6.7" x 8.5" | Reaction Chamber: 6" | Height: 21". Skimmer Pump: EVair 600 120 GALLONS - Heavy Load 160 GALLONS - Medium Load 200 GALLONS - Light Load IMPRESSIVE PERFORMANCE - REMARKABLY SMALL FOOTPRINT Distinctive Turbulence Reducing Body Solid PVC & Acrylic Construction Bubble Dispersant Chamber Novel Pipeless Output Valve Efficient & Quiet Operation Disassembles Completely for Easy Cleaning & Maintenance In-Sump Installation Only The IceCap K1 160 is a remarkably compact skimmer that offers a new level of refined filtration for marine aquariums ranging from 120 to 200 gallons. All aspects of the skimmer were implemented to surpass many challenges other skimmer on the market miss out on. COMPACT & BUILT TO LAST Master crafted from robust PVC and high quality acrylic. All components are marine safe and refined in every aspect to provide the latest enhancements in foam fractionation and the highest in quality. The elegant “Beer Bottle" curve of the skimmer body naturally stabilizes the air and water mix as they transition upward within the reaction chamber. An impressively compact footprint makes it the ideal candidate for tight sump applications. Every aspect of the skimmer disassembles completely for easy service.
- The IceCap K1-160 is a remarkably compact skimmer that offers a new level of refined filtration for marine aquariums ranging from 120 to 200 gallons. All aspects of the skimmer were implemented to surpass many challenges other skimmers on the market miss out on.
- For aquariums up to: 200 gallons, light bio load; 160 gallons, medium bio load; and 120 gallons, heavy bio load.
- In-sump installation only. Recommended sump water height: 7" to 10".
- EVair 600 skimmer pump
- Distinctive turbulence reducing body. Footprint: 6.7" X 8.5", 20" tall. Solid PVC & acrylic construction. Bubble dispersant chamber. Novel pipeless output valve.
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 |
SC Aquariums SCA-301 Protein Skimmer, 65 gal
SC Aquariums
Product description
Model number: SCA-301This skimmer is designed to work for salt water tanks up to 65 Gallons of salt water. Collection Cup comes with drain tube. Air Silencer is included. Removable cup for convenient cleaning and maintenance. Skimmer Size: 4.25" L x 7" W x 17" H6 Levels of water flow adjustments A 28watt, 1380 Liter/Hour flow Power Head pump is included. Pump specs: 110-120V/60Hz 28watt, (1380 L/h)1 Year Limited Manufacture Warranty.
- This skimmer is designed to work for salt water tanks up to 65 Gallons of salt water
- Air Silencer is included
- Skimmer Size: 4.25" L x 7" W x 17" H Ideal Water Level is 6 to 7"
- 1 Year Limited Manufacture Warranty
- Pump specs: 110-120V/60Hz 28watt, (1380 L/h)
User questions & answers
| Question: | I have a 30 gallon reef tank now. Also a 75 gallon in storage. Will this work for the 30 gallon now and in the future use it for my 75 gallon |
| Answer: | Sunsun 304? Like a 304 gal tank or? It has it's own pump if that's what you mean I personally have this working on a total of an about 140g aquarium |
| Question: | How much room do you need in the sump for this |
| Answer: | pump inside connects to center tube |
| Question: | will this work on 72 bowfront with 20 gal. sump |
| Answer: | Yes we have it on our 90 gallon tank |
| Question: | What is the foot print size |
| Answer: | Hi, I believe about 7". |
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