nitrate levels

[whiterose]

Can anyone tell me if there is a difference in nitrate levels in a tank containing FISH only, CORALS only, or fish AND corals. I have heard that reef tanks are generally lower in nitrates than a fish tank. If so why is that?

 

[beaslbob]

I agree with kip. The difference in nitrAte levels reported here is the nitrAte requirements. Corals and anemones are reported to just require lower nitrAte Values whereas fish can tolerate much higher values.
In either system, keeping nitrates as low as possible is the practical goal. Practical because nitrAtes tend to buildup therefore the goal is to keep them low.