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At AquaCave, we offer some of the best selection and best prices on aquarium protein skimmers for you marine and reef aquarium. Protein skimmers use air bubbles to create foam, which adsorbs and entraps waste products and surface active compounds that make foam production possible. We carry skimmers that make this foam using venturi , air-driven, or spray injection systems. Using ozone instead of air to make foam can enhance waste removal and also help control bacteria, protozoa and viruses.

Protein skimming removes certain organic compounds, including proteins and amino acids found in food particles, by using the polarity of the protein itself. Due to their intrinsic charge, water-borne proteins are either repelled or attracted by the air/water interface and these molecules can be described as hydrophobic (such as fats or oils) or hydrophilic (such as salt, sugar, ammonia, most amino acids, and most inorganic compounds). However, some larger organic molecules can have both hydrophobic and hydrophilic portions. These molecules are called amphipathic or amphiphilic. Commercial protein skimmers work by generating a large air/water interface, specifically by injecting large numbers of bubbles into the water column. In general, the smaller the bubbles the more effective the protein skimming is because the surface area of small bubbles occupying the same volume is much greater than the same volume of larger bubbles. Large numbers of small bubbles present an enormous air/water interface for hydrophobic organic molecules and amphipathic organic molecules to collect on the bubble surface (the air/water interface). Water movement hastens diffusion of organic molecules, which effectively brings more organic molecules to the air/water interface and lets the organic molecules accumulate on the surface of the air bubbles. This process continues until the interface is saturated, unless the bubble is removed from the water or it bursts, in which case the accumulated molecules release back into the water column. However, it is important to note that further exposure of a saturated air bubble to organic molecules may continue to result in changes as compounds that bind more strongly may replace those molecules with a weaker binding that have already accumulated on the interface. Although some aquarists believe that increasing the contact time (or dwell time as it is sometimes called) is always good, it is incorrect to claim that it is always better to increase the contact time between bubbles and the aquarium water. As the bubbles increase near the top of the protein skimmer water column, they become denser and the water begins to drain and create the foam that will carry the organic molecules to the skimmate collection cup or to a separate skimmate waste collector and the organic molecules, and any inorganic molecules that may have become bound to the organic molecules, will be exported from the water system.

In addition to the proteins removed by skimming, there are a number of other organic and inorganic molecules that are typically removed. These include a variety of fats, fatty acids, carbohydrates, metals such as copper and trace elements such as iodine. Particulates and other detritus is also removed, along with phytoplankton and bacteria. This removal is highly desired by the aquarist and is often emphasized by the placement of the skimmer before other forms of filtration; lessening the burden of the filtration system as a whole. There is at least one published study that provides a detailed list of the export products found in protein skimmer skimmate.[3]

Protein skimmers are used to harvest algae and phytoplankton gently enough to maintain viability for culturing or commercial sale as live cultures.

Alternative forms of water filtration have recently come into use, including the algae scrubber, which leaves food particles in the water for corals and small fish to consume, but removes the noxious compounds including ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and phosphate that protein skimmers do not remove.

  • IceCap K1-100 Protein Skimmer IceCap K1-100 Protein Skimmer IceCap K1-100 Protein Skimmer IceCap K1-100 Protein Skimmer

    IceCap

    IceCap K1-100 Protein Skimmer

    IceCap K1-100 Protein Skimmer Footprint: 4.5" x 7.5" | Reaction Chamber: 4" | Height: 19"Skimmer Pump: EVair 400 Impressive Performance - Remarkably Small Footprint Distinctive Turbulence Reducing Body Solid PVC & Acrylic...

    $124.99
  • Bubble Magus ACS120 Skimmer Cleaning Head Bubble Magus ACS120 Skimmer Cleaning Head Bubble Magus ACS120 Skimmer Cleaning Head

    Bubble Magus

    Bubble Magus ACS120 Skimmer Cleaning Head

    Bubble Magus ACS120 Skimmer Cleaning Head Collection cup cleaner Specifications: ACS 120 - 120MM diameter Can be used with Curve 5 / Curve 5 Elite protein skimmers  Bubble Magus ACS120 Skimmer Cleaning Head Collection cup cleaner...

    $119.99
  • Bubble Magus ACS150 Skimmer Cleaning Head Bubble Magus ACS150 Skimmer Cleaning Head Bubble Magus ACS150 Skimmer Cleaning Head

    Bubble Magus

    Bubble Magus ACS150 Skimmer Cleaning Head

    Bubble Magus ACS150 Skimmer Cleaning Head Collection cup cleaner Specifications: ACS 150 - 150MM diameter Can be used for CURVE 7 Skimmer  Bubble Magus ACS150 Skimmer Cleaning Head Collection cup cleaner Specifications: ACS 150 - 150MM...

    $119.99
  • IceCap K1-50 Protein Skimmer IceCap K1-50 Protein Skimmer IceCap K1-50 Protein Skimmer IceCap K1-50 Protein Skimmer

    IceCap

    IceCap K1-50 Protein Skimmer

    IceCap K1-50 Protein Skimmer Modern Design and Functionality The IceCap K1-50 is a remarkably compact skimmer that offers a new level of refined filtration for marine aquariums ranging from 40 to 80 gallons. All aspects of the skimmer were implemented...

    $119.99
  • Sicce Shark Intertnal SKIM 150 Sicce Shark Intertnal SKIM 150 Sicce Shark Intertnal SKIM 150 Sicce Shark Intertnal SKIM 150 Sicce Shark Intertnal SKIM 150

    Sicce

    Sicce Shark Intertnal SKIM 150

    Sicce Shark Intertnal SKIM 150 Shark SKIMMER 150 and Shark SKIMMER 300 are modern internal skimmers with a very compact and innovative Shark design for direct integration into marine biotopes. They come from the latest development and knowledge in the...

    $119.99
  •  Bubble Magus QQ2 Protein Skimmer  Bubble Magus QQ2 Protein Skimmer  Bubble Magus QQ2 Protein Skimmer

    Bubble Magus

    Bubble Magus QQ2 Protein Skimmer

    Bubble Magus Protein Skimmer QQ2 MODEL: BM-QQ2 Pump: ROCK SP600 Power: 110v ,8.5W Size: 3.9" × 2.9" × 12" Capacity: Up to 26 gallon aquariums Bubble Magus Protein Skimmer QQ2 MODEL: BM-QQ2 Pump: ROCK SP600 Power: 110v ,8...

    $119.95
  • Simplicity 240DC Skimmer Pump Simplicity 240DC Skimmer Pump Simplicity 240DC Skimmer Pump Simplicity 240DC Skimmer Pump Simplicity 240DC Skimmer Pump

    Simplicity

    Simplicity 240DC Skimmer Pump

    Simplicity 240DC Skimmer Pump For Simplicity 240 DC Protein SkimmerSimplicity 240DC Skimmer Pump For Simplicity 240 DC Protein SkimmerProduct code: 6813Item No. WP-SIM-NW240DC

    $119.95
  • IceCap 2.5 Liter HOB Waste Collector IceCap 2.5 Liter HOB Waste Collector

    IceCap

    IceCap 2.5 Liter HOB Waste Collector

    IceCap 2.5 Liter HOB Waste Collector Eliminate smelly skimmate build-ups and prevent skimmer overflows with this 3-in-one device. It collects large amounts of skimmate, controls strong odors, and incorporates a fail-safe mechanism to stop overflowing...

    $109.99
  • IceCap 4.5 Liter Waste Collector IceCap 4.5 Liter Waste Collector

    IceCap

    IceCap 4.5 Liter Waste Collector

    IceCap 4.5 Liter Waste Collector Eliminate smelly skimmate build-ups and prevent skimmer overflows with this 3-in-one device. It collects large amounts of skimmate, controls strong odors, and incorporates a fail-safe mechanism to stop overflowing...

    $109.99
  • IceCap 1.5 Liter Waste Collector IceCap 1.5 Liter Waste Collector

    IceCap

    IceCap 1.5 Liter Waste Collector

    IceCap 1.5 Liter Waste Collector Eliminate smelly skimmate build-ups and prevent skimmer overflows with this 3-in-one device. It collects large amounts of skimmate, controls strong odors, and incorporates a fail-safe mechanism to stop overflowing...

    $99.99
  • IceCap AIO 240 All-In-One Aquarium Protein Skimmer IceCap AIO 240 All-In-One Aquarium Protein Skimmer IceCap AIO 240 All-In-One Aquarium Protein Skimmer IceCap AIO 240 All-In-One Aquarium Protein Skimmer IceCap AIO 240 All-In-One Aquarium Protein Skimmer

    IceCap

    IceCap AIO 240 All-In-One Aquarium Protein Skimmer

    IceCap AIO 240 All-In-One Aquarium Protein Skimmer Looking for a rear-compartment protein skimmer to take your all-in-one aquarium to the next level? Look no further! If you have an all-in-one aquarium that's between 20-65 gallons, the IceCap AIO 240...

    $99.99
  •  Bubble Magus C3+ Protein Skimmer  Bubble Magus C3+ Protein Skimmer

    Bubble Magus

    Bubble Magus C3+ Protein Skimmer

    Bubble Magus Protein Skimmer BM-C3+ w/ SP1000 Pump Bubble Magus protein skimmers combine the value of the low cost imported skimmers with well known reliable pumps like Atman. The affordable imported body combined with industry trusted pumps produces a...

    $99.95
  • Bubble Magus QQ1 Protein Skimmer

    Bubble Magus

    Bubble Magus QQ1 Protein Skimmer

    Bubble Magus Protein Skimmer QQ1 Efficient and ease-to-use skimmer for aquariums up to 25 gallons. Great features including a needle-wheel pump, easy to adjust body and foam bubble reducer on the outlet.Specifications Rated for tank up to...

    $99.95
  • Simplicity 120DC Skimmer Pump Simplicity 120DC Skimmer Pump Simplicity 120DC Skimmer Pump Simplicity 120DC Skimmer Pump Simplicity 120DC Skimmer Pump

    Simplicity

    Simplicity 120DC Skimmer Pump

    Simplicity 120DC Skimmer Pump For Simplicity 120 DC Protein SkimmerSimplicity 120DC Skimmer Pump For Simplicity 120 DC Protein SkimmerProduct code: 6812Item No. WP-SIM-NW120DC

    $99.95
  • IceCap Medium CO2 Scrubber IceCap Medium CO2 Scrubber IceCap Medium CO2 Scrubber IceCap Medium CO2 Scrubber IceCap Medium CO2 Scrubber

    IceCap

    IceCap Medium CO2 Scrubber

    IceCap Medium CO2 Scrubber Raise pH in Your Reef Aquarium with an IceCap CO2 Scrubber The pH in a reef tank should be around 8.3 for optimal coral growth. If you’re struggling to maintain pH or if your aquarium suffers from chronically low...

    $98.99
  • Tunze Skimmer Cup Holiday (9012.145) Tunze Skimmer Cup Holiday (9012.145)

    Tunze

    Tunze Skimmer Cup Holiday (9012.145)

    Tunze Skimmer Cup Holiday (9012.145) Fits DOC Skimmer 9012, with appropriate hose connection and 2m (78.7in.) silicone hose. Provides the accumulation of significantly larger quantities of foam, e.g. in a bucket, cup or directly into the drain. For...

    $89.99
  • Fluval Sea PS1 Nano Protein Skimmer Fluval Sea PS1 Nano Protein Skimmer

    Fluval

    Fluval Sea PS1 Nano Protein Skimmer

    Fluval Sea Protein Skimmer's space-saving design and ultra-silent operation is a smart alternative to larger skimmers, as it delivers the same organic removal capacity as bigger models. The protein skimmer features an easy-to-maintain, modular design...

    $86.99
  • IceCap AIO 120 All-In-One Aquarium Protein Skimmer IceCap AIO 120 All-In-One Aquarium Protein Skimmer IceCap AIO 120 All-In-One Aquarium Protein Skimmer IceCap AIO 120 All-In-One Aquarium Protein Skimmer IceCap AIO 120 All-In-One Aquarium Protein Skimmer

    IceCap

    IceCap AIO 120 All-In-One Aquarium Protein Skimmer

    IceCap AIO 120 All-In-One Aquarium Protein Skimmer Looking for a rear-compartment protein skimmer to take your all-in-one aquarium to the next level? Look no further! If you have an all-in-one aquarium that's between 10-30 gallons, the IceCap AIO 120...

    $79.99
  • IceCap K1-Nano Protein Skimmer IceCap K1-Nano Protein Skimmer IceCap K1-Nano Protein Skimmer IceCap K1-Nano Protein Skimmer IceCap K1-Nano Protein Skimmer

    IceCap

    IceCap K1-Nano Protein Skimmer

    IceCap K1-Nano Protein Skimmer Skimmer Body: 2in Footprint: 2.7in x 3.2in Total Height: 13in Magnet Mount: Up to 1/2in thick DCair 200 Pinwheel Pump Power Consumption: 5watts Air Draw: 100lph / 3.5scfh* Water...

    $79.99
  • IceCap Small CO2 Scrubber IceCap Small CO2 Scrubber IceCap Small CO2 Scrubber IceCap Small CO2 Scrubber IceCap Small CO2 Scrubber

    IceCap

    IceCap Small CO2 Scrubber

    IceCap Small CO2 Scrubber Raise pH in Your Reef Aquarium with an IceCap CO2 Scrubber The pH in a reef tank should be around 8.3 for optimal coral growth. If you’re struggling to maintain pH or if your aquarium suffers from chronically low pH,...

    $76.99
  • Skimmer Stand 3, Footprint: 17.7"x11" Skimmer Stand 3, Footprint: 17.7"x11"

    CoralVue

    Skimmer Stand 3, Footprint: 17.7"x11"

    The Reef Octopus skimmer Stand makes it easy to raise protein skimmers to ideal water levels. Provides an extremely solid platform for the skimmer to rest on. Adjust to 3 heights and available in three models.Adjustable Solid Platform to raise protein...

    $75.06
  • Fluval Sea PS2 Mini Protein Skimmer Fluval Sea PS2 Mini Protein Skimmer

    Fluval

    Fluval Sea PS2 Mini Protein Skimmer

    Fluval Sea PS2 Mini Nano Protein Skimmer Compact, yet powerful, the Fluval Mini Protein Skimmer helps to remove dissolved organic compounds and other harmful substances from your aquarium before they have a chance to break down into dangerous...

    $73.99
  • Skimmer Stand SST-2, Footprint: 13"x9" Skimmer Stand SST-2, Footprint: 13"x9"

    CoralVue

    Skimmer Stand SST-2, Footprint: 13"x9"

    The Reef Octopus skimmer Stand makes it easy to raise protein skimmers to ideal water levels. Provides an extremely solid platform for the skimmer to rest on. Adjust to 3 heights and available in three models.Adjustable Solid Platform to raise protein...

    $71.60
  • CDX Reactor Kit CDX Reactor Kit CDX Reactor Kit CDX Reactor Kit CDX Reactor Kit

    Two Little Fishes

    CDX Reactor Kit

    CDX Reactor Kit PhosBan Reactor 150 Two Little Fishies CDX 750 ml. - Carbon Dioxide Adsorption Media Two Little Fishies CDX Adapter for PhosBan Reactor CDX Reactor Kit The PhosBan Reactor 150 is designed with the upflow principle to achieve the...

    $68.95
  • Skimmer Stand 1, Footprint: 11"x7.5" Skimmer Stand 1, Footprint: 11"x7.5"

    CoralVue

    Skimmer Stand 1, Footprint: 11"x7.5"

    The Reef Octopus skimmer Stand makes it easy to raise protein skimmers to ideal water levels. Provides an extremely solid platform for the skimmer to rest on. Adjust to 3 heights and available in three models.Adjustable Solid Platform to raise protein...

    $63.51
  • JBJ Nano Protein Skimmer

    JBJ

    JBJ Nano Protein Skimmer

    JBJ Nano Protein Skimmer. Fits JBJ 28 gal. Nano Cube Aquariums.• Counter Current Skimming Method• Air pump/tubing/wooden air diffuser included• Hangs perfectly in the rear filter area• Adjustable hanging bracket

    $59.99
  • Reef Octopus Delay Timer

    Reef Octopus

    Reef Octopus Delay Timer

    Reef Octopus Delay Timer This timer is designed to be used with skimmers,it will make skimmers start to work after the power is reconnected for 5 minutes.When the Red LED is on, No power is on the timerWhen the Green LED is on, Power is available on the...

    $59.99
  • Tunze Outlet Hose for Tunze Skimmers

    Tunze

    Tunze Outlet Hose for Tunze Skimmers

    consisting of 2m (78.7in.) special outlet hose, diam. 40mm (1.57in.), with clamps and holder.Consisting of 2m (78.7in.) special outlet hose, diam. 40mm (1.57in.), with clamps and holder.Product code: 1216Item No. PS-TZ-1075/2

    $59.99
  • IceCap K1 NEO Protein Skimmer IceCap K1 NEO Protein Skimmer IceCap K1 NEO Protein Skimmer IceCap K1 NEO Protein Skimmer

    IceCap

    IceCap K1 NEO Protein Skimmer

    IceCap K1 NEO Protein Skimmer ULTRA Compact Protein Skimmer The IceCap K1 NEO is an ultra-compact skimmer that offers a new level of refined filtration for marine aquariums ranging from 5 to 15 gallons. All aspects of the skimmer were designed to...

    $54.99
  • Tunze Skimmer Cup Holiday (9004.145) Tunze Skimmer Cup Holiday (9004.145)

    Tunze

    Tunze Skimmer Cup Holiday (9004.145)

    Tunze Skimmer Cup Holiday (9004.145) Fits DOC Skimmer 9004, with appropriate hose connection and 2m (78.7in.) silicone hose. Provides the accumulation of significantly larger quantities of foam, e.g. in a bucket, cup or directly into the drain. For...

    $54.99
  • CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 12" (C2C-300) CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 12" (C2C-300) CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 12" (C2C-300) CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 12" (C2C-300)

    Reef Octopus

    CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 12" (C2C-300)

    CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 12" (C2C-300) A Perfect Lid for a Perfect Fit This special lid is designed to precisely fit a range of Reef Octopus protein skimmers with the intent to use it in conjunction with a CO2 Scrubber (RO-C2T-90) to draw out the...

    $50.99
  • IceCap AC Skimmer Controller IceCap AC Skimmer Controller IceCap AC Skimmer Controller IceCap AC Skimmer Controller IceCap AC Skimmer Controller

    IceCap

    IceCap AC Skimmer Controller

    IceCap AC Skimmer Controller Works with AC Protein Skimmers and Waste Collectors The IceCap AC Skimmer Controller easily connects to a skimmer lid or waste collector (sold separately) and protects from overflow. It also includes a time delay and feed...

    $50.00
  • CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 10" (C2C-250) CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 10" (C2C-250) CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 10" (C2C-250) CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 10" (C2C-250)

    Reef Octopus

    CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 10" (C2C-250)

    CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 10" (C2C-250) A Perfect Lid for a Perfect Fit This special lid is designed to precisely fit a range of Reef Octopus protein skimmers with the intent to use it in conjunction with a CO2 Scrubber (RO-C2T-90) to draw out the...

    $45.99
  • Sicce Shark MINI Surface SKIM 350 Plus Sicce Shark MINI Surface SKIM 350 Plus Sicce Shark MINI Surface SKIM 350 Plus Sicce Shark MINI Surface SKIM 350 Plus Sicce Shark MINI Surface SKIM 350 Plus

    Sicce

    Sicce Shark MINI Surface SKIM 350 Plus

    Sicce Shark MINI Surface SKIM 350 Plus Shark MINI SKIM effectively filters surface water, quickly and accurately freeing it from floating objects such as plant debris, dust and those annoying molds that can cause a reduction in the necessary air exchange...

    $44.99
  • CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 8" (C2C-200) CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 8" (C2C-200) CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 8" (C2C-200) CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 8" (C2C-200)

    Reef Octopus

    CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 8" (C2C-200)

    CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 8" (C2C-200) A Perfect Lid for a Perfect Fit This special lid is designed to precisely fit a range of Reef Octopus protein skimmers with the intent to use it in conjunction with a CO2 Scrubber (RO-C2T-90) to draw out the...

    $40.99
  • CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 6" (C2C-150) CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 6" (C2C-150) CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 6" (C2C-150) CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 6" (C2C-150)

    Reef Octopus

    CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 6" (C2C-150)

    CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 6" (C2C-150) A Perfect Lid for a Perfect Fit This special lid is designed to precisely fit a range of Reef Octopus protein skimmers with the intent to use it in conjunction with a CO2 Scrubber (RO-C2T-90) to draw out the...

    $35.99
  • Sicce Shark MINI Surface SKIM 350 Sicce Shark MINI Surface SKIM 350 Sicce Shark MINI Surface SKIM 350 Sicce Shark MINI Surface SKIM 350 Sicce Shark MINI Surface SKIM 350

    Sicce

    Sicce Shark MINI Surface SKIM 350

    Sicce Shark MINI Surface SKIM 350 Shark MINI SKIM effectively filters surface water, quickly and accurately freeing it from floating objects such as plant debris, dust and those annoying molds that can cause a reduction in the necessary air exchange...

    $34.99
  • CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 4" (C2C-120) CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 4" (C2C-120) CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 4" (C2C-120) CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 4" (C2C-120)

    Reef Octopus

    CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 4" (C2C-120)

    CO2 Scrubber Skimmer Lid 4" (C2C-120) A Perfect Lid for a Perfect Fit This special lid is designed to precisely fit a range of Reef Octopus protein skimmers with the intent to use it in conjunction with a CO2 Scrubber (RO-C2T-90) to draw out the...

    $30.99
  • IceCap AIO Skimmer Mag-mount Bracket IceCap AIO Skimmer Mag-mount Bracket IceCap AIO Skimmer Mag-mount Bracket

    IceCap

    IceCap AIO Skimmer Mag-mount Bracket

    IceCap AIO Skimmer Mag-mount Bracket Mag-mount Bracket for IceCap AIO Protein Skimmers The IceCap Mag-mount features durable rare-earth magnets for easy installation of IceCap AIO120 and AIO240 protein skimmers on all-in-one aquariums. It securely...

    $24.99
  • IceCap Color Changing CO2 Absorbent Media 1kg. IceCap Color Changing CO2 Absorbent Media 1kg. IceCap Color Changing CO2 Absorbent Media 1kg. IceCap Color Changing CO2 Absorbent Media 1kg.

    IceCap

    IceCap Color Changing CO2 Absorbent Media 1kg.

    IceCap Color Changing CO2 Absorbent Media 2 kg. Struggling with low pH? Frustrated by slow coral growth? We've got the solution! Introducing the IceCap CO2 Scrubber and CO2 Absorbent Media It happens to all of us at some point during our reefing...

    $12.00
  • ASM Replacement Body O-Ring Fits G-4 Through G-6X

    ASM

    ASM Replacement Body O-Ring Fits G-4 Through G-6X

    ASM Replacement Body O-Ring ASM protein Skimmers use needle wheel design on a Sedra pump for to create a finer bubble for highly effective skimming action!ASM Replacement Body O-Ring. Available Sizes: 1. Fits G-1 Through G-1X (1004) 2. Fits G-2 Through...

    $11.95
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