tank style

[chaplain]

I am brand new at the hobby and I have enjoyed reading all the messages. However, I have not found out the answer to my concern. Can I use a tall tank, as oppoesed to a long tank to set up a LR? What about a hexigon tank? I am considering a tank around 50 gal. Thanks for your help.

 

[jimi]

You can use one but it is not recommended. There is less surface area for gas exchange with a hex tank. If you provide plenty of circulation, dont overstock, and a wet/dry type sump you should be ok.

 

[chaplain]

Thanks Jimmi
If I don't go with a hex tank, what about the tall tank?

 

[jimi]

Anything deep has a higher chance of low oxygen, but surface area means alot and there should be more with a tall.

 

[rickt4du]

Also, depending on how tall, you lighting has to be adjusted accordingly. Coral placement will be a little more crucial.

 

[kdlbem]

And don't forget, the deeper the tank, the more light you'll need to keep corals(if that is your plan). This is in the reef section, so I figured I'd better mention it.
B

 

[kdlbem]

Sorry Rick, I guess you type faster than I do. LOL!
B

 

[ke4nfy]

i have a tall 40 gal with pc lighting and lots of coral you just have to be careful with the size of your fish because of less room to swim

 

[adrian]

A hex tank will be fine if thats what you want to go with, true there is less surface area, but surface agitation will make up for that via an overflow or power heads. It can be difficult to light a hex, or not. IMO Metal halides are the best choice for lighting hex tanks, this way you dont have to fool with a bunch of florescents that will be more expensive in the long run. The wattage of the MH will depend on what you want to keep. Another tricky thing with hex tanks is stacking the rock. Its near impossible to use only the very back glass. A buddy of mine had his drilled right in the center so he could use the stand pipe to cable tie the rock to. You could see around the entire rock structure and it made an awesome looking tank. Just keep in mind hex tanks dont take long to fill and if you get into the hobby like the rest of us it wont take long till your wanting to upgrade HTH