I've been struggling with the definition of success for awhile now. I like to tell myself that it is in the eye of the beholder...to a point. I've been running a Reef and FOWLR for two? years now (seems like three for the reef). Tore both down and restarted once, due to a move. Both tanks have now been running again for 7 months. In terms of keeping fish and corals alive, I've been successful, with very few deaths. A couple of chromis; a clam; a cleaner shrimp. The clam death was entirely my stupid fault as I was Joe's Juicing Aiptasia that was on its shell. Lost a male Blue Chin Trigger once, too, but I'm certain it died due to shipping stress. It never did well from the start. So, in terms of keeping fish and corals alive...I consider myself successful.
Where I'm not so certain is the overall tanks themselves. The FOWLR is doing great. Nasty cyanobacteria has run it's course and pretty much gone, except for some in the sump.
The reef is another story. Had cyano here as well, but it too has all but dissappeared. Where I struggle with the term "success" is my ongoing battle with Aiptasia. I just can't seem to get it under control. I also now have a nasty hair algae problem as well. I have a mind to try a Racoon Butterfly for the Aiptasia problem, and a Sea Hare for the algae problem. In the meantime, however, I try to accept it by telling myself the tank has a more natural look. But I still find it hard to consider my reefkeeping a success.
In short, if success to you is keeping livestock alive then I echo Alberts comments re: information, patience, discipline and planning with emphasis on the information (ie: research) and patience. Especially patience. GO SLOW.
If success to you is keeping an award worthy, pristine reef tank...well....I hope you like a challenge.
Good luck and cheers,
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Mark.
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