New Mixed Reef Build - how high is possible

[DaddyO NJ]

I am upgrading my 90g reef to a 6' length and 24-30 width. It will be a room divider and my wife is wanting me to make it around 36-42" high to give a lot of visibility to the tank and not just everyone staring at the cabinetry around it.

What is everyone's opinion on making one this high? Can I get lights to reach the bottom?

I know I will not be able to reach the bottom and have to use grippers to move anything, but I think I can handle this part adequately. Thoughts?

Also, what is the desired width to give proper aquascaping? It will be visible on both long sides of the tank.

 

[BlennyTime]

If you are looking to make it that tall, I’d make it as wide as you can. Especially if you are looking to aquascape both long sides.

The main risk of going taller would be there would be more empty space at the top. Which may not be bad for a room divider.

Lights shouldn’t be an issue, just have to buy the right lights and place coral appropriately.

 

[KrisReef]

It depends on how much room you have to bring a rectangle of glass into the room. Also, the deeper you go the thicker material you will need to minimize bowing from the head pressure.

Talk with your tank mfgr or local glass factory to find out what their size limits are for square feet combined with the weight issue as the taller tank is much heavier.

There are glass size - thickness weight calculators on line that can provide real numbers.

 

[wonroc]

Get on the njreefers.org and get some used ones bra