Live Rock
 

How much live rock would you put in a 135G fish only tank (be conservative) in order to provide it with proper filtration? I have 4 fairly large coral skeletons to go in too.

To provide adequate filtration for a tank of fish, I'd say at least 100 pounds. This will also depend on type of rock, size, porosity, etc. Remember, fish need more filtration than corals (as a general rule).

Live Rock
 

So economically, why would one go with Live rock for filtration and spend a thousand dollars when you can get artificial filtration for under $200?

Live rock is a more natural environment for sea critters. It also looks a heck of a lot better than dead coral skeletons. And realistically, live rock is not $1000, you can get it for less than half that much. So buy a cannister for 200 or live rock for 450. I'd go with the live rock. Many wouldn't. It all depends on what type of tank you want.

Live Rock
 

$450 for live rock? Is this cured or uncured?

Re: Live Rock
 

$4.39/pound for uncured kanai rock from J&L. It's a new setup, so cure in tank.