Does the tank shape matter?

Jon561 · Aug 23, 2013

Hey guys,

I'm new to reef tanks and just beginning my research into the various aquarium equipment and livestock. Does the tank shape matter? More specifically, would it be better for the aquarium and livestock to have a rectangular shape versus a cube shape? I assume more surface area is better or is it just personal preference?

Thanks for the help!

johnanddawn · Aug 23, 2013

There is a lot of personal preference involved but IMO
- shallow is a bit easier to light ( 24" or less)
- wider front to back is easier to aqua scape (18" or more is better then 12")
- unless you want very large active swimming fish, 4' or less long is better because lighting and flow for 6' long tanks is much more expensive
- and in general you want as much volume as you can afford/have room for

LivinTheSwreefLife · Aug 23, 2013

Depends on what you want to keep. As stated above some very active swimmers need a long tank. The depth is only important if you plan to keep corals or an anemone as it effects the lighting options (so that corals at the bottom still get adequate light).

If you're starting with a small tank in which you wouldnt have such fish and where the depth won't be more than 18-24 inches than the shape shouldnt matter except in terms of aesthetics (some think cubes are easier for arranging the rock as rectangular tanks can be narrow) and of course your preference for the space you have.

Zero Nitrates · Aug 23, 2013

Really depends on what you are going to keep in the aquarium. Research the fish, corals and inverts that you like to see what kind of room they need.
Have fun reefing!