This review covers our experience with the Coralife Biocube protein skimmer, a budget-friendly option we purchased for our reef tank. We recently upgraded our tank's inhabitants with the addition of two Condylactis anemones, a green leg crab, a red leg crab, and a hermit crab, all of which are thriving. This expansion prompted the need for a more efficient waste removal system, leading us to the Coralife skimmer. Our purchase was made through eBay, offering significant cost savings compared to retail prices. The installation, while generally straightforward, presented a minor challenge with an incorrect check valve provided by the seller.Despite this initial setback, we successfully adapted and the skimmer is now operational, effectively removing waste and contributing to improved water quality. This review details the installation process, highlighting both the ease of setup and the problem with the check valve. We'll also discuss the skimmer's performance, its value for money, and how it’s integrated into our ongoing reef tank development, including our plans for adding corals once we upgrade our lighting. Overall, we assess whether the Coralife Biocube protein skimmer truly offers a cost-effective upgrade for maintaining a healthy reef aquarium.
Pros And Cons
- Easy to install
- Affordable ($30 on eBay)
- Skimming effectively after installation
- Incorrect check valve/valve sent by seller
- Requires further adjustment of skimming settings
Read more: Top 5 Green Aquarium Corals
Tank Inhabitants and Recent Additions
We recently added two Condylactis anemones to our tank. Both are purple-tipped beauties; one nestled comfortably under a rock, seemingly enjoying the current there, the other positioned on the front side. Our clownfish have already taken notice of their new neighbors, particularly the anemone more readily accessible on the side.
In addition to the anemones, we’ve introduced some new crustaceans to the tank: a green leg crab, a red leg crab, and a hermit crab. They've been diligently cleaning the rocks and exploring their new environment.
Soon, we plan on adding corals once we upgrade our lighting system. This upgrade is currently pending.
Coralife Biocube Protein Skimmer Installation and Performance
We purchased a Coralife Biocube protein skimmer from eBay for a mere $30! My husband completed the installation on Saturday. Finding replacement parts for the Biocube can be challenging; hence, the eBay purchase.
While the installation was straightforward, there was a slight hiccup. The eBay seller sent the wrong check valve. We had to improvise using a spare valve from a previous protein skimmer. Despite this, the skimmer has been operating effectively since installation, removing waste effectively.
We are fine-tuning the skimming process to optimize performance. We are still tweaking the settings for optimal skimming. Initial results have been promising, especially considering the low cost.
Overall Assessment and Conclusion
The Coralife Biocube protein skimmer offers exceptional value for its price. Despite the initial issue with the check valve, its performance has been impressive. Its ease of installation is a definite plus.
While there may be a learning curve in fine-tuning the skimming process, the initial results are encouraging. Overall, this budget-friendly skimmer is a great addition to a reef tank setup, especially for those on a tight budget.
The anemones and crabs have also thrived, adding visual interest and beneficial cleaning to our tank environment. We look forward to adding corals after upgrading our lighting system, further enriching our reef setup.