[fencer]

This is an interesting thread.
1. Lighting-intensity is important - related to PAR especially when lighting is 15000k or higher
2. Flow - I used to think high flow is important, but now I am of the opinion waveboxes are the type of high energy flow you want not the ones generated by powerheads (vortechs can also give you this type of wave)
3. Internal recirc - yes, the more dead spots you can eliminate the better -I was convinced by Dez's tank
4. Sandbeds - yes, as long as you have critters to sift it
5. Maturity of the tank-definitely yes - a year or more - balanced biotopes take that long if not longer
6. Fish poop(not alot required) - yes they provide food for the bottom chain feeders
7. Water Quality - yes, 10% change out, carbon etc
8. Ca/Mg - chronic low numbers are indicative of consumption in well established SPS tanks...That is why Dez has been known to unload dump trucks of additives in the tank
9. Ultralith or Zeo - work way better in balanced tanks and you don't have to have the full blown product line to use these products
10. pH/Alk - 7.8 / 8 dKH
11. Other supplements - amino acids yes, use other products if they give you peace of mind and they nuke your tank
12. Salt - find a salt you like - a very expensive salt does not equate to a better tank