Do canister filters for a saltwater tank require a sump?

Question

I am looking into a 72 gallon saltwater set-up (Fish only with live rock or FOWLR) but I don't want to mess with a sump. I am thinking of running a nice hang-on protein skimmer, 80 lbs of live rock and a canister filter. But I dont know how a canister filter works. Do they need to be in a sump (submerged?) Do they just fit under the cabinet? If so, how does the water from the tank get down into the filter and how does it get returned to the tank? Do I need an overflow for a canister filter? If so can I use a hang-on style?Thanks for your help

Answer 1

A canister would just go in the cabinet, on the side, or even behind the tank.  There is no need to put it in a sump.  The filter will come with two hoses-- one input, one output.  Really, it is a fairly simple play-'n'-plug concept with plenty of room for customization.  You could even do some filter floss or foam and then a fair bit of crushed live rock behind it.