Mantis Tornado Protein Skimmer 500

The Mantis Tornado Protein Skimmer 500 is a commercial-grade in-sump protein skimmer engineered for very large marine and reef aquarium systems between 4,000 and 5,000 litres.

Powered by the high-output Mantis Tornado 9000 DC pump, it delivers an impressive 3,500 litres of air per hour, producing an extremely dense column of fine bubbles for exceptional foam fractionation and nutrient export.

The large reaction chamber, turbulence-reducing body and bubble dispersant plate maximise contact time between air and water, efficiently removing dissolved organic waste before it breaks down into ammonia, nitrate and phosphate.

Constructed from premium PVC and acrylic, the Tornado 500 is designed for long-term reliability and can be fully disassembled for easy cleaning and maintenance. It is an ideal choice for large reef aquariums, fish-only systems and commercial marine installations.

Specifications

• Recommended aquarium size: 4,000-5,000 litres
• Body diameter: 500mm
• Pump: Mantis Tornado 9000 DC Pump
• Air intake: 3,500L/hour
• Power consumption: 95W
• Dimensions: 420 × 360 × 820mm
• Footprint: 420 × 360mm
• Overall height: 820mm
• Installation: In-sump only

Key Features

• Premium in-sump protein skimmer
• Suitable for marine aquariums from 4,000 to 5,000 litres
• High-performance Tornado 9000 DC pump
• Massive 3,500L/hour air intake
• Large 500mm reaction chamber
• Bubble dispersant chamber for maximum foam production
• Turbulence-reducing body design
• Quiet, energy-efficient DC operation
• Durable PVC and acrylic construction
• Fully serviceable for easy maintenance
• Designed for demanding reef systems

Suitable For

• Large reef aquariums
• SPS reef systems
• LPS reef aquariums
• Mixed reef aquariums
• Fish-only marine aquariums
• Commercial aquarium systems
• Public aquarium filtration systems

How Does the Mantis Tornado 500 Work?

The Tornado 9000 DC pump draws water and air into the skimmer body, producing millions of ultra-fine bubbles.

Organic waste adheres to the bubble surfaces before rising into the collection cup, removing proteins and dissolved organic compounds before they can negatively affect water quality.

This process helps maintain lower nutrient levels while improving water clarity and oxygen exchange.

What Aquarium Size Is the Tornado 500 Rated For?

The Mantis Tornado Protein Skimmer 500 is designed for marine aquariums between 4,000 and 5,000 litres.

Actual capacity depends on livestock density, feeding regime and overall nutrient load. Heavy bioload reef systems may require more frequent collection cup cleaning for peak performance.

Why Use a Protein Skimmer?

Protein skimmers remove dissolved organic waste before it decomposes, helping to:

• Reduce nitrate and phosphate
• Improve water clarity
• Increase oxygen exchange
• Reduce nuisance algae
• Support healthier corals and fish
• Improve long-term reef stability
• Reduce the load on biological filtration

Why Choose the Mantis Tornado 500?

The Tornado 500 is designed for aquarists maintaining large reef aquariums where powerful nutrient export is essential.

Its high air intake, efficient DC pump and large reaction chamber deliver exceptional skimming performance while remaining quiet and energy efficient. The robust PVC and acrylic construction ensures years of dependable operation.

Looking for More Marine Aquarium Equipment?

Browse our complete range of:

• Protein Skimmers
• Return Pumps
• Wave Makers
• Reverse Osmosis Systems
• Marine Salt
• Aquarium Test Kits
• Filter Media
• Reef Supplements

Please Note

• Designed for in-sump installation only.
• Ensure adequate sump clearance before installation.
• Allow sufficient space above the skimmer to remove the collection cup.
• Performance varies depending on aquarium bioload and sump water depth.
• Routine cleaning of the collection cup, air intake and pump is recommended to maintain optimum performance.