MINDER Protein skimming, is also known as foam fractionation . The purpose of a protein skimmer is to remove DOC's (Dissolved Organic Compounds) from aquarium water, thus improving the quality of the water.

A protein skimmer is constructed in a tube or tower design, has a collection cup at the top, and in some cases a water return tube. The skimmer works by injecting massive, very fine air bubbles into the tube by means of using either air stones or a high pressure water pump and air valve. The rising air bubbles act as a lift in the tube, allowing the chemical compounds of the DOC's to attach to the bubbles and hitch a ride to the surface, where they are captured in the collection cup and disposed of.