[pogodzib]

I have about 3Lbs/gal in my tank, which is well beyond what most people have. I think the reason why people recommend less rock is three fold. First off, it is easier for water circulation so you don't get dead zones with detrius buildup. Secondly, the fish have more places to swim and hide. And finally, COST. IMO, 1-2 Lbs is the minimum you want in a tank, but more is better as long as you can maintain flow through the rock. Even when I had minimal mechanical filtration in the past with a small skimmer, I never registered any nitrates, but there are plenty of people these days that have 1-2 Lbs/gal with a good skimmer that have high nitrates.