Tell me about nitrates!!

[mattheyn]

Hey guys, i was wondering if nitrates are skimmable. Would a skimmer, like a prism, be worth the $$? The tank that I am having problems with is a ten gallon nano. I know that it is hard to create an anearobic environment in such a small tank. I have a nice area of calurpa in the display but I just don't think that it converts NO3 to a gas quickly enough. And I am tired of doing sooo many small water changes. I've researched the refugium idea for the tank and have counted it out. So, should I break down and buy the prism or maybe a bakpak for it?? Please help :?

[mattheyn]

So, it wouldn't do me any good buying a skimmer or bakpak?? My bio-load is already very small, I only have one fish and I feed him every other to every third day. I do, however, feed my tank with decapsulated brine shrimp eggs about every week. I think that this is what is adding to the NO3 problem the most. Now, if I were to feed the tank, and allow the skimmer to pull off the early decomposition of the organics, wouldn't this stop the cycle thus decreasing my NO3 concentration? what do you think??

[Chuck]

Maybe a question for Jim,
I read that claims actually use low levels of nitrates -J. sprung Any idea if this is true? If so maybe you could squeeze one in....

[mattheyn]

Are there any nano guys out there that can help???

[robertpower3]

I have two twelve gallon nanos. One with a prizm and one without. The skimmer should reduce the nitrate levels, but I don't know if it is of real concern. I have seen quite a few tanks with out skimmers or refugiums that do just fine. I would strongly suggest not useing the prizm. It's a pain to constantly adjust and I have to take it apart to clean it every few months. I have heard and seen good things with the back pack. Both of my tanks have been running for a while and I realy can't tell a difference.

[Tim Marvin]

I would advise against a prizm also.If it isn't adjusted right it will flood the house. They are hard to adjust and need constant attention.