How much live rock is enough?

[dallas03]

I have a 55gal people say if you have enough LR a high dollar filter isn't necessary. Right now i have 45lbs. Is this ok with 2 hang over filters or should i get a bio-wheel? I already have one hang over.

 

[cjworkman]

I would drop the bio-wheel.. they are nitrate factories.
1.5 lbs of LR per gallon is usually a good rule of thumb.
I would go with 70lbs of LR and a good protein skimmer and you'll be set.

 

[reefkprz]

yup I agree with Cjworkman no to the bio wheel yes to more live rock. I reccomend any where from a pound and a half to two and a half pounds per gallon depending on how dense the rock is. if the rock is reall dense it doesnt filter as well due to lack of porosity. you cant really have too much. as long as it doesnt crowd out your tank more is better.

 

[chipmaker]

You do not need a filter if you have sufficien tlive rock. Bio Wheels are certainly not a good idea for a SW tank. 1.5# LR per gal is sufficient. Buy a Aqua Clear AC110 or 70 for additional current flow and the capability to use carbon in a bag if need be, but do not place any filter media in it as its not needed with sufficient LR.