Do you skim?

[Pinchy]

ive never heard that they would remove your trace elements- the only thing taht would come to mind is anything that is lipid-based-i.e.- fatty acids, amino acids, - stuff thats somewhat beneficial that people can add from products like seachem's reef plus...

[KISSReef]

With skimming, my guess is there's really not a right or wrong answer, just a different means to the same end (water quality). In the intermediary between water changes, skimming probably removes some goodies along it's path of improved water quality (namely iodine). These elements are probably replaced through suppliments, water changes and feedings.

 

http://www.wetwebmedia.com/marphysf.htm

 

Not skimming probably holds a slight excess of Disolved Organics in the water column until you make your water change (assuming other filtration doesn't remove them). So long as you don't have negative effects from this potential temporary elevation I guess you can save money on equipment, modifications and trace elements.

 

http://www.nano-reef.com/articles/?article=3

 

I guess the only certainty is: Frequency in water changes.

[Withers]

yeah, very true. Thanks for the links