Do I need a mech filter too?

[Mr. Barlow]

If I set up a 120g reef tank with live rock, sand or maybe live sand, sump/fuge with skimmer, is there a need for a mechanical filter also.

 

[Killerdrgn]

mechanical as in sponge filter? then no, they would be nitrate factories.
Maybe for a QT tank.

 

[Mr. Barlow]

Ok so I would be fine with just the live rock and sub/fuge/skimmer as filters. Any suggestions on live sand or is some fine argonite ok as a substrate. I dont want a bare bottom tank. I like the way sand looks if live sand would help I would go that route.