Surface skimming

[cbong]

I've started my second planted tank, a 2x1x1 feet tank. Is there a need to always have a surface skimmer? If so, are there small ones or suggestions to DIY? Currently using an internal filter, which I doubt can connect a skimmer. Besides the skimmer, how else to rid the surface dirt? Please advice. Thanks

[pipsqueak]

I think you can routinely remove the surface scum by dabbing a paper towel or newspaper on the surface. Or scoop out the surface scum like you would to a oily soup.

[sherchoo]

I dun recomend you using a skimmer.... your tank is kinda small. The skimmer would look gigantic in there.

[lorba]

Introduce fish that will eat them eg molly, swordtail.

or

be a little creative and diy your own surface skimming device. I am not doing it, just suggesting I am using internal filters for my 2 1.5ft.

One has a small airtube inlet at the water outlet, its possible to connect a small tube upwards to act as a mini skimmer, but likely to choke.

The other has a rotary output, i tilt it to create a very small agitation at the surface. Alternatively, since most internal filter has suction caps behind, simply stick the filter closer to the surface to create the agitation.

[M0rph3us]

or can use guppy