Thoughts on Tank Size and Shape

[pixelbit]

Hi Folks,

I'm planning a reef tank, and wanted to maximize the space available to me, as well as the light spread. I'm thinking of growing ricordea and LPS to start, with possibly some easy beginner SPS at the top of the tank once I get back into the swing of things. The space I am working in, can fit up to a 36" wide tank, and could extend out roughly 30-36" as well. For lighting, I'm fairly certain I would go with the AI Hydra 26HD or the EcoTech Radion XR15W Gen 4.

For tank size, I've narrowed down possible selections, such as the 50 gallon, 60 gallon cube, or 90 gallon cube, which should all fit in the space allocated. Do you guys have any preference for tank shape as it relates to rectangles vs cubes? I think lighting a cube would be easier, but at 36" I would most likely need two lights for correct coverage correct? (My aquascape would most likely be a boomie in the middle for a cube, and two small boomies off center for a rectangular tank)

Regarding tank shape vs types of fish, the 36" width I assume would affect types of fish I could keep. Ie: would a dwarf angelfish be ok in a 90 cube? What about anthias? I do know I would like to keep sexy shrimp, and a goby/snapping shrimp combo. I also thought it would be fun to have a clarkii clownfish and a banggai cardinalfish. (I am sticking to the gallon recommendations from Live Aquaria, but they don't take into account tank length persay)

I'm hoping to get some recommendations on what a good tank size should be for my plan. (I tend to over analyze this stuff) Thanks so much!

 

[Greybeard]

I had a 60g cube for a while. Rockscaping is challenging, fish selection is limited... I upgraded, and won't be going back to that size.

I'm helping a friend build a 93 cube now. Not really a cube, it's 30 x 30 x 21, but so far, I can say with certainty that the extra 6" in width and length makes a great deal of difference. Can't say I'm a huge fan of the shape, but it's far better than the 60 I had. My 60 was on a custom, oversized stand... the factory stand on the 90 cube is even more limited than what I had to work with on my 60. Space restricted, for sure, and that's after raising the stand 7" over factory height.

Now... 36 x 36 x (18" 24" ??) That'd be a more interesting size. I like shallow (my reef is 60 x 30 x 18), so I'd probably go 18" in height. Still gives you 90+ gallons, lots of space to get creative with rockwork... CustomAquariums shows that size, rimless, at just over a grand... so you could buy several standard 60 cubes for what you'd spend on it, but IMHO, it'd look awesome

Bigger you get, the more challenging lighting is. I'm a fan of T5... that 36 x 36 would be well lit by a 6 or 8 bulb 24" T5 fixture. Wouldn't cost you near what top end LED's would.

 

[HB AL]

I would keep it simple, get the biggest tank you like that will fit the space. It's up to you what your gonna be happy with. The actual dimensions of the tank are not going to affect its ability to keep animals alive.

 

[Twolabs443]

I have had an IM Fusion Lagoon 50 for about 6 months and really love its dimensions. 30x24x16. I find the shallow height allows for a good sized footprint and space for coral/ swimming room for fish. Not going to be able to throw tangs in there but for the fish you mentioned it would be great. They just started making the Black model as well which is reef ready if AIO isn’t what you are looking for.

 

[pixelbit]

I just saw that - the ones with the external overflows. I’m really interested in them. They look like a nice blend of traditional sump with a nice deep footprint.