yes, and yes.
and since I have removed my sand bed my cyno and diatom problems are a thing of the past. I think in theory it is a good concept but in reality we cannot support enuf of the right critters to make it work. I think Dr. Ron said that the average aquarium has less than 10% of the variety and amount of critters required to make it work properly.
another big thing for removing the sand bed is water flow. before I had a 70X turnover rate in the top 1/3 of the tank. this proved difficult for proper placing of acros in order for them not to be in to strong of a current. Now with the same 70X turnover dispersed through out the tank all I have is gentle current at any point in the tank. If I tried this be for all I would have done is kicked up a sand storm. Also as a side benefit of the dispersed current I am finding that detritus is kept in suspension which makes it available for corals to catch and eat and the rest can go through the overflow to the skimmer.
Steve
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 *everything said above is just my opinion, and may or may not reflect the views of this BBS, its Operators, and its Members. If cornered on any “opinion” I post I will totally deny having ever said this in a Court of Law…Unless I am the right one*
Some strive to be perfect.... I just strive.
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