I've recently converted my 30 gallon refugium to a frag tank for the same reasons that Kien mentioned, biopellets killed it. Without biopellets it grew Chaeto well and helped with pH and nutrient levels. I did leave the sand bed and rubble there for the critters.
I still think a refugium is a good idea for a tank that doesn't incorporate a carbon dosing program. I would consider it essential to a tank with a small amount of live rock or one using dry rock, for at least the first several months.
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