Question on UV sterilizer and skimmer

[NewReefGuy]

I have set up a 50 gallon reef for one son and a 60 gallon reef for the other. I have set up a protein skimmer in the 60 gallon and have not in the 50 gallon. I also have a UV sterilizer that I have not set up yet because I did not want to kill off the good bacteria that I am trying to establish.

What is the purpose of a Protein Skimmer (hopefully more to it than skimming off protein) and UV Sterilizer and are they necessary for semi-smallish reef tanks?

Thanks,

Jeff

 

[bkv1997]

No a UV sterilizer isn't needed.

A skimmer skims out DOCs (Disolved Organic Compounds) things that can later break down into nitrates, phosphates and other things that lowers the overall health and promote algea growth.

I can type about this for hours, but the best information can be found in the helpful articles section of this forum.

Let me know if you have trouble finding them.
Brandon

 

[jhnrb]

Helpful articles - page 1 - Skimming Basics. hope this helps.

 

[NewReefGuy]

Thanks a bunch guys