Bubble Magus MiniQ Hang-On Nano Protein Skimmer

The Bubble Magus MiniQ is a compact hang-on protein skimmer designed for small marine tanks. It fits on the back of the aquarium or slips into the rear filter chamber of many all-in-one tanks. Its job is to remove dissolved organic waste before it breaks down into nitrate and phosphate.

How a skimmer helps a small reef

A skimmer mixes fine air bubbles into tank water. Organic compounds cling to the bubbles, rise as foam and collect in a cup you empty. In a nano tank, where a little extra food can swing water quality fast, that steady removal makes a difference.

Pump and power

• DC needle-brush pump. A 2W pump makes the foam while using very little power.
• USB power. It runs on 5V, 1A through a standard USB connection, so a phone charger works. In an outage, a power bank can keep it going.
• Capacity. Bubble Magus rates it at 19.8 gallons per hour of water treatment.

Fit

The body measures about 3.22 by 2.08 by 8.9 inches. Check the space in your tank’s back chamber or rim before ordering. A slim body like this suits all-in-one nano tanks such as the Fluval Evo XII.

Tuning it

A knob-type valve sets the water level inside the skimmer. Raise it for wetter foam that removes more, or lower it for drier foam. New skimmers often need a few days to break in before foam builds steadily, so adjust in small steps. Empty and rinse the cup regularly.

Who should look elsewhere

It’s built for small saltwater tanks. Larger reefs need a bigger skimmer, such as the Reef Octopus Classic 110, and freshwater tanks don’t use skimmers at all.