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Reef Octopus Classic 110-INT Protein Skimmer
A workhorse in-sump skimmer reefers trust.
- In-sump skimmer rated for systems up to ~100 gallons
- Pinwheel pump produces fine, persistent bubbles
- Acrylic body with a generous collection cup
- Stable performance once dialed in
- Solid build aimed at long-term reef use
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Pros
- Excellent dissolved-waste removal
- Fine bubbles drive efficient skimming
- Reliable, set-and-forget once tuned
- Roomy collection cup means less emptying
- Built for the long haul
Cons
- Needs sump space to fit properly
- Break-in period before it stabilizes
- Pump adds to running noise
- Tuning takes some patience
At a glance
A workhorse in-sump skimmer reefers trust.
The Reef Octopus Classic 110-INT is a dependable in-sump skimmer that pulls waste reliably once it's dialed in.
- In-sump skimmer rated for systems up to ~100 gallons
- Pinwheel pump produces fine, persistent bubbles
- Acrylic body with a generous collection cup
- Stable performance once dialed in
- Solid build aimed at long-term reef use
Product Specifications
- System Size
- Up to ~100 gallons
- Type
- In-sump protein skimmer
- Pump
- Pinwheel needle-wheel
- Body
- Acrylic
- Collection Cup
- Removable, large
- Water Type
- Saltwater
Why we recommend the Reef Octopus Classic 110-INT Protein Skimmer
Protein skimming is the backbone of a healthy reef, and the Reef Octopus Classic line has earned a strong reputation for doing it well without drama. The 110-INT sits in your sump and uses a pinwheel needle-wheel pump to generate the fine, dense bubbles that grab dissolved organic waste before it breaks down into nitrates. That bubble quality is what separates a skimmer that merely runs from one that genuinely cleans, and Reef Octopus has the pump design dialed.
The acrylic body and generously sized collection cup are built with daily reef life in mind. A bigger cup means you’re not emptying skunky skimmate every other day, and the sturdy construction is meant to take years of saltwater exposure. Once it settles in and you’ve tuned the water level and air intake, it tends to run steadily in the background, which is exactly what you want from a skimmer.
Who it’s for
This skimmer suits saltwater and reef keepers running a sump on systems up to roughly 100 gallons who want proven, reliable waste export. It does need real sump space, and like every skimmer it goes through a break-in period of a week or two where the skimmate is inconsistent before it stabilizes. Tuning takes a little patience up front. But for keepers who value a skimmer that just works once set, the Classic 110-INT is a long-standing favorite for good reason.
The Bottom Line
The Reef Octopus Classic 110-INT is a dependable in-sump skimmer that pulls waste reliably once it's dialed in. For a reef or saltwater system up to about 100 gallons, it's a trusted long-term choice.
View on Amazon →As an Amazon Associate, AquaticRig earns from qualifying purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size system does the 110-INT suit?
It's rated for saltwater systems up to around 100 gallons, though bioload matters as much as volume. A lightly stocked larger tank or a heavily stocked smaller one both shift the practical range.
Why is my new skimmer producing inconsistent foam?
That's the normal break-in period. New skimmers take a week or two for the body surfaces to condition before skimmate stabilizes, so resist over-tuning during the first days.
Does it need to go in a sump?
Yes, the 110-INT is an in-sump model and needs adequate sump depth and footprint to sit at the correct water level. Confirm your sump dimensions before buying.
How do I tune it?
Adjust the water level in the skimmer body and the air intake until you get a steady, wet or dry foam to match your goals. Make small changes and give it time to respond between adjustments.
Is it noisy?
The needle-wheel pump adds some operating sound, typical for a skimmer of this type. Housing it in a closed cabinet sump muffles most of the noise in living spaces.