protein skimmer or refugium?

[Reefydude360]

which is more important for a new tank like mine I plan on adding both on the long run but I dont have the $$$ to get both now so which first refugium or skimmer:question:

 

[wontonflip]

I'd get a skimmer first, since it removes gunk before it breaks down. Plus if the tank's new, it's counter productive to set up a fuge, since the chaeto will probably starve from lack of nutrients. Skimmer would be more useful.

 

[markrj]

Or go very "frugal" like me and just do a DIY algae scrubber.

I have a 20gal long sump and refugium I intend to get going very soon along with the alage scrubber.

I have no plans for a skimmer at this time. If I think I need one down the road I will get one of course.

So far so good with the algae scrubber being my only form of "filtration" beside the 90lbs of Live Rock in the tank itself.

 

[RockStacker]

In my opinion, if you plan on getting either one you should go with a good skimmer first.

Granted that the refugium provides additional functions, but with regards to removing gunk from your tank:
Skimmer - "Takes the garbage out and tosses them to the dumpster out in the alley."
Refugium - "Collects the garbage in bags and the bags are stored in the attic or basement."

 

[Reefydude360]

Thanks everyone I will add both but I will get a good skimmer first then a HOB refugium for pods since I'll add a mandarin down the road thanks again!

 

[Reefydude360]

hey is the reef octopus Bh 100 hang on back a good skimmer???

 

[MikeG]

Reef Octopus is a very good brand of skimmers.

 

[Bifferwine]

+1 MikeG, those are good HOB skimmers.