Opinion on building rockwork - islands or a wall...

[azbigjohn]

I am getting ready to construct my rockwork for my new 210 gallon build (build thread in my signature).

The footprint of this tank is much more open than my previous tank (a bowfront) so I am trying to decide how to lay out my rockwork. I have always been an "islands" guy. Three rock "islands" with arches and caves, so there was full swimming room on all sides of the structures.

With my footprint now of 6' x 2', and 30" high, I am wondering if building my rockwork towards teh back wall would allow me more are for corals, and I could even create a "cove" effect, so I have an area for lower flow for picky corals...

Flow in the tank will be via a Gyre XF250. I don't have any pictures yet, as I have not yet begun cementing anything, as I need to make this decision first...

So, which do you prefer?

 

[dbl]

If I had to offer an opinion, I've never been a fan of a wall of rocks. But that's just me and others will differ. I'm sure you've read through the thread below, but it offers an good insight in to aquascaping.

Just remember, make sure you like it in the end because you're the only one that gets to enjoy it everyday.

https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/tips-and-tricks-on-creating-amazing-aquascapes.97209/

 

[azbigjohn]

Yeah, I've read that thread, and I try to follow the "rule of thirds".

I appreciate the opinion! I've seen examples of both that looked nice, just trying to decide what I want to do before I apply any cement.

 

[Roy 9121]

I have a 55 gallon tank, so i did a rock wall, just because of space. But if i had a bigger tank I'd do a peninsula layout. Just my opinion.

 

[saltyfilmfolks]

Im big on google image searches. And yea, Ive seen some stunning rock wall work. And yes the hoarder in me belies I'll be able to use it to put more coral in.

 

[becks]

The biggest problem with that thread is people concentrating to much on the rock scape and neglecting the fact it will change with corals, there are some stunning reefs that show the before and after photos of two piles of rocks and once the corals grew, it was amazing.

I was guilty of it...but I'm downsizing to a redsea 250 and transferring my stock tomorrow which I will learn my lesson too by just building a rock base.

 

[saltyfilmfolks]

The biggest problem with that thread is people concentrating to much on the rock scape and neglecting the fact it will change with corals, there are some stunning reefs that show the before and after photos of two piles of rocks and once the corals grew, it was amazing.

I was guilty of it...but I'm downsizing to a redsea 250 and transferring my stock tomorrow which I will learn my lesson too by just building a rock base.

lol +1. I cant see half my rocks...