how vital would a skimmer in a nano tank b? because my understanding is that u only really need them in larger tanks where it is impractical to change alot of water? so are they necessary in a nano?

Depends what you intend keeping, but i would have thought it more important (per se) in a smaller tank as the water volume is so much less and therefore quality more likely to swing quickly.

Im no expert though - so dont take this opinion as gospel;

but then its easy 2 do a quick water change where as a large tank would b quite hard to change say 1/3 or so of the water

Check out www.nanoreef.com if you havent already.

Well, there are lots of nano's without skimmers that do fine. You are better off with a skimmer, but it is definately possible to go without. I would suggest a cheap skimmer, it will be better than nothing, and wont cost much.

Wiepro 2014 is a cheap skimmer - ~$140 , and people have generally said that it's good for the price. www.deepblueaquarium.co.nz

Queen turbo skimmers are very cheap ~$40, there are some mods that can make them better, but the consensus is they're probably the worst available(but will still be better than nothing).

where can i get 1 of those $40 1s frm? wot are there dimentions?

I'd just try the petshop, or you could ask in the privatetrade/exchange part of the forum. I know Organism in Christchurch sells them, but thats probably not much help.

ask Chimera