Ret Talbot and I are writing a series of articles on 'Suite101' about the theoretical, and more practical, aspects of marine biotope tanks for those who keep reef species. Perhaps the best way to get into these articles is to begin at http://marinebiologyoceanography.suite101.com/blog.cfm/biotoping
(I am a marine biologist and write from that perspective - Ret is a hobbyist and writer).
Just thought you might be interested
Very interesting! Since I live within 15 minutes of coral reefs here in the Philippines, it gives me a chance to put what I learn and observe of the reefs and its habitats to use at home with my own reef aquarium system, which is run as naturaly as possible by providing as many habitats as possible all tied in together. I will have to spend more time going through what you have put together. Thanks!