Tank dimension suggestions please.

[Cameloter]

I currently have a 4X2X2 tank but have the itch for a new tank with more front to back space for interesting aquascaping. I am leaning toward a peninsula style. I do not want to exceed 120G's. i am considering 48X30X20H, 40X40X18, 36X36X20 and slight variations of those dimensions. Would like some feedback from people who may have or have seen tanks like that. What depth is preferable? Is 18" too shallow? Would a 30" wide tank be difficult to evenly illuminate? Any suggestions appreciated.

 

[mercenary-grunt]

there really is no too shallow. its all prefrence. and i have seen 4 m/h pendents set in a square next to each other. you just need to make sure that you can go up. if you want to use m/h then you increase the distance between the water and bulb and you will have more coverage.

 

[Peppie]

I have been thinking about, and collecting equipment for a peninsula style tank also, The dimensions I am considering are 48 long, 30 wide, and 30 high. 170gal. I like those numbers but the 30 high might be reduced by 3''. If I do that I will make the length 2'' - 4'' longer. Making the tank, about 52 long 30 wide and 27 tall.

 

[user 26995]

I would go 25"-27" tall. No more than. Especially if your tank is going to be long and wide. If it is too tall, you wont be able to reach areas in the center to do anything, like cleaning or attaching coral, or picking up coral after someone knocks it down. Go longer!

 

[JPG@CFI]

Keep in mind sheet yield of the acrylic. I use 4x8, 5x8 and 6x8 sheet size all the time. As far as how tall? Measure your arm. This will tell you alot. Remember the taller, the thicker the acrylic= bigger the cost of the tank. JPG

 

[Somethings Fishy]

what is wrong with your tank-get creative

 

[mcoomer]

I've got to tell you, 4X2X2 is a pretty nice tank. If you were 18" front to back and tall that would be another matter. Now, if you're not buying this tank with the rent money then buy what suits your fancy but my 180 is 6X2X2 and I love the depth it has. If you don't buy a new tank think of the money you'll have for pumps, skimmers, powerheads, lighting, and critters.

Mike

 

[Cameloter]

Tank dimensions

Reason for possible change is moving tank to new position in room where 3 sided viewing would be enhanced with peninsula style tank. There is no one to blame but myself but I have so much rock in my current tank that space on the sand is limited .I wanted to open things up with some open sand between some groups of rock. There was an article in the Reef Magazine winter issue that I found intriguing that talked about creating more perspective in your tank.I can't see the reason to have a tall tank with concerns about light penetration, extra water volume and easy reach if the tank is 30-36" wide. If I wanted that the Marineland deep dimensions tanks would be an easy choice.I appreciate everyone's perspective. Thanks for taking the time to respond. Steve

 

[Somethings Fishy]

Keep us posted on what you end up doing! you could try to open things up a bit if you take some of your rock out? any pics of the tank?

 

[Darthv247]

i love the 4x2x2 footprint for a 120g system but wider would be the best bet. go 36" wide and keep the rest of the dimensions the same or add an inch or two of height would be awsome as well but this will bring your total over 120g but thats good for parameters and stability anyways