Getting my feet wet

[Raf]

Since you have a rather smallish FOWLR tank this is not as vital but in my 220 Gallon FOWLR with really big fish, mechanical filtration is really important! Hence I run canisters quick filters all with mostly mech media(changed often) and a really good protein skimmer.

I suggest you run at least some dort of mech filter beyond a protein skimmer, even if its a HOB type Aquaclear loaded with floss..