remove hob filter and use live rock for nitrate control

[denny456]

Hi I have been reading that the hob filter is not necessary in tanks that have cycled.
I have a 15 gallon tank with a hob filter with just floss. The tank has cycled. I have a chromis, yellow watchman goby and some green implosion soft coral with live rock. This is day 43 for the set up. Is it time for me to take the media (floss) permanently out of the filter? Any opinions welcome.

[MizTanks]

On a tank that size you could get away with weekly to bi-weekly water changes and a good skimmer. Keep your bio-load down and feedings light.
A hob filter with floss isn't all bad. Helps remove larger detritus particles. You could still use the HOB running carbon in it. The floss would have to be replaced often to prevent it from becoming a nitrate factory.

What else do you have for flow in your tank? How many pounds of rock do you have in there?

[denny456]

I don't use a skimmer but might get one. Don't know how many lbs of rock. Maybe 25. I will continue with just floss and change often. I expect to get two small hermit crabs and no more livestock. Thanks for reminding me I need to get the particles out of the water column and floss does it. I have charcoal but don't use it. My water looks and smells nice.

[MizTanks]

Just use a turkey baster and gently blow the rock. Your hob will pick up the mess :)
As your tank is now you can get away without a skimmer. But once your bio-load increases you'll definitely want one. I went through the skimmerless stage, UGH! Lol-now I don't change yellow water any more :) or as often.
Whatever you do go slowly, and don't add to much. Because I guarantee your going to be wanting/needing a bigger tank!!!

[denny456]

I did a lot of reading before I even started buying for the salt water tank. Just about everything I read said get the biggest you can afford or fit in your house. I gave it careful thought and decided on the 15. the rounded front corners give lots of viewing area. I'm pretty sure I don't want anything bigger. Actually, if I get another it might be a 6 or 8 gallon.
I'm not fond of changing lots of salt water for one thing. I'm looking forward to the two hermits because my Chromis and watchman goby hardly go for any falling food. The goby wants it right in his forhead area lol and the chromis wants the food in the water column. Neither look for food on the sand. I will post a photo soon.