I place myself in the rookie category concerning corals however this much I do know, they will benefit mostly from a
balanced system that has
matured. One which posses', (sp?, if it matters),
consistancy and ideal water conditions. The correct
lighting will be essential, as will their
placement within the system.
These factors all take
time to achieve substantial growth.
Simply adding nutrients for feeding purposes will ultimately lead to the growth of other single & multi cellular organisms...
. I would doubt the LFS in yours, or any area, would be interested in trading these life forms...
Another consideration I'm sure your already aware of is the combined use of a "display tank" with that of a "frag" tank. Now yes, it can be done, many do. I admire those that achieve success with this combination but they are certainly dealing with a system that possesses many of the criteria previously mentioned. I would also consider them "intermediate to advance" coral "propogators". Corals take time to adjust whenever they are re-located. Fish on the other hand, simply don't like having their environment screwed around with.
Established fish are far more tollerant. Newly introduced fish get very aggitated when distruptions occur as they are battling for complacancy in their new surroundings. This stress factor, in my opinion, is the leading cause of disease outbreak in any system. That is the easiest "stressor" to avoid.
I would suggest a separate system for the "barter project", and allow yourself, and everyone, the enjoyment that comes with watching a system mature. It's worth the wait !!!