The hobby has evolved a lot since 15 yrs ago. Wet/dry filters were very efficient, err, nitrate factories. They certainly were a step up when first introduced. Now, the emphasis is on skimming. Take the organics out before it turns into nitrates. The bacteria on all the live rock takes care of most of the biological processes, as well as live sand.
I found the book Marine Aquarist by Bob Fenner very helpful. But I am sure there is a lot of info on the web now.
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