Do i really need a prot
 

I have a 65 gallon tank that currently has only a few clowns and 50 pounds of live rock.

I am considering converting the tank into a reef tank. the tank has two powerhead filters and a magnum 350 canister filter.

If i convert the tank to a reef tank i will be upgrading the lighting system to metal halides.

I was wondering if if i need/ should get a protein skimmer.

You do NOT need one, but they certainly help.


This is what I accomplished with no sump and a Prizm (can't really call it a skimmer)
[IMG]http://i50.photobucket.com/albums/f304/dc_909/Full%20tank%20Shots/100_2935.jpg[/IMG]

Some reefers run successful reef tanks without them.

Many also swear by them.

I'd say more use them then not. I personally think it is a good investment. You would probably agree if you saw the cups of gunk mine spits out in a weeks time. :D