Do I need a skimmer for a 12G Nanocube?

I have read a lot about skimmers but it seems they are better suited for bigger tanks, like 55G. Mine is 12 gallons, would a skimmer be necessary?

 

No it isn't necessary. Twelve gallons is small enough to control waste through water changes. I run an inexpensive Rio Nano-Skimmer on my 10g, and while it helps I think I could easily have done without it.

Just be careful how much you feed.

 

I just noticed how many fish you have in your nano. Personally, I would keep no more than two fish that size in there. I have a mated pair of false perculas in my 10g and I am considered overstocked.....

 

+1 on Pharmrjohn for me

with a low bioload, ( dont add any more fish and you might want to lose a couple) and a good water change routine, you coud leave a skimmer from these smaller set ups


air driven skimmers are not a bad option for smaller tanks IME
I have used the Berlin 60 and the Sander Piccolo models on smaller set ups and they are effective IME

Steve

 

Skimmers are not absolutely mandatory on any tank. They make life a lot simpler but you can run any size tank without one if you are willing/able to do the maintenance and water changes. What is mandatory is removing the waste from the tank, however you choose to do it. Whether chemical, biological or mechanically. You just have to choose the right method of removal that fits your setup. I have a 12G Eclipse that has a skimmer for it but my 20G breeder tank doesn't have a skimmer. Both are setup for sumps, I just preferred having the skimmer on the 12G for personal reasons and didn't have another for the 20/10 setup.