[matt_wahoo]

I am building a stand for my 25 gallon tank because all the ones at the store are cheap press board of they dont have a canopy option. Its frame is 2x4s and is being covered with 3/4inch pak plywood. It will be stained and clear coated. I know it is way over kill for a 25 gallon but I would rather be safe than sorry . I am trying to find out the best way to make a canopy. There are a few ideas I have been playing, but I wanted to see if anyone has any better ideas.
I will add pics when I am finished.

[scubadude]

B4 you build a canopy you should definately consider what you want to put in your tank the reason I say this is it will definately decide on cooling effect too. For example lets say you want it to be mainly SPS corals then you will probably lean more toward halide lighting or intense lighting which will mean higher temps if you dont figure out how to effeciently cool it. Now wood is a great idea and easy for any DIY job but in my opinion on a tank that small I would try to figure out how to make an open-air style canopy w/basically just legs on your corners to suspend the lighting....this will allow more air circulation thus not allowing heat buildup within a wooden box style canopy.

About the only reason you wouldnt want an open-air style canopy is if you get fish that jump...or have cats that might try to get into the tank?