I am guessing you have never kept a reef tank? To say there is no art or skill required for a reef tank is just ludicrous.
I have never kept a FW planted tank but I can easily see there is alot of artwork and skill required.
Seems like you're bashing reef just because it can take "scads" of money.
Most reefers prefer reefs because there are many more colors to choose from than green.
Ya no kidding. What a joke. I had a full planted tank that looked amazing. And Im not just saying that. All my coworkers loved it when it was at my work. But it didnt take a whole lot of art or skill. Basically planted them and did one nice aquascape and let it grow.
I spent alot of money on CO2. So dont say it isnt expensive. If you were to take a world wide poll I guarantee SW would come back hands down as the best type of tank.