Ideal SPS dimensions

Velcro · Nov 23, 2017

I love looking at my tank with an avast spyglass from the topdown perspective. Currently have a 93 cube, 24" tall with 95% SPS. I need to start planning my next build as I have some fish that will outgrow this tank in the next 1-2 years.

Ideally, I think I want dimension that will allow me to turn down the DC return pump and enjoy the SPS from the top. I'm thinking about a 72x24x16" tank at this time, on a stand that would allow me to easily look from the top down. Should I be considering 18 or even 20 inches tall? I plan on the aquascape being quite low with shelve rock supported by acrylic rod to keep detritus from settling below the rock.

saltyfilmfolks · Nov 24, 2017

IMO , less length , more width.
Think deep frag tank.
You want room to move around with your camera at the top and particularly to not shadow. It would also stay reasonably deep sonot looks good from the FTS.
A peninsula with a central island and our crops in both sides would be real cool. IMO

rtparty · Nov 24, 2017

I've often contemplated what is my realistic "perfect" size tank. I currently have a 24*24*20 50g and I love the 24" front to back. I absolutely hate the 24" side to side. I really miss my 40B tanks. That 36*18 is amazing! The 16" tall did suck IMO. I think 18" tall is a good compromise if you don't want too tall. I don't mind the 20" I have now though.

Personally, I think something like 72*36*20 would be really cool. The 36" wide might be a little tough to light so even coming into 30" would work a little better.

saltyfilmfolks · Nov 24, 2017

rtparty said:
I've often contemplated what is my realistic "perfect" size tank. I currently have a 24*24*20 50g and I love the 24" front to back. I absolutely hate the 24" side to side. I really miss my 40B tanks. That 36*18 is amazing! The 16" tall did suck IMO. I think 18" tall is a good compromise if you don't want too tall. I don't mind the 20" I have now though.

Personally, I think something like 72*36*20 would be really cool. The 36" wide might be a little tough to light so even coming into 30" would work a little better.

Good calls.
A fwiw,once we know the dims of the space , and that the goal is top downs(primary angle of photography) , we can light for that. That's actually what I do for a living.
A lighting controller will come in handy