What are the most important factors to obtain good results in a reef tank?

[frank88]

Money money and more money.

:fun2: sure....:mad2:

 

[JPMagyar]

Balanced biology.

Balanced biology.

I think another consideration is bacterial balance. Given that skimmers take out a third or less of the waste our tanks need to process 70% of the waste through the bacteria found on LR and in the sand beds. If the bacteria can't handle the load then the tank won't thrive. There's really so much involved.

I disagree with the money issue as I think reefing on a budget can and does happen all the time if one takes full advantage of the used equipment market and has patience which may be the most important factor after all as has already been suggest

 

[Gary Majchrzak]

Every factors are important.
But if I have to choose only one choice, I vote for weekly water change.

I agree.

Consider the phrase "means to an ends". There are many ways to accomplish something.

It looks like a lot of work went into creating this poll. Like a reef aquarium, better results might be obtained by keeping it simple.

 

[OwenInAZ]

yep

2. Looking at the tank. I've seen so many people make such a big deal about their tank "stats" that they never actually look at the animals, and sometimes it definitely shows. Pay attention to the fish and corals. You'll see the positives and you'll catch problems more quickly.

This is key. So many people chase numbers and stress out if their tank deviates one degree from 78.3 degrees. Watch your livestock. If your corals are stressed you have a problem. If they're doing well, let it ride!

 

[frank88]

Money money and more money.

this sure....:spin1: