[qwiksilver]

I have to choose between an 89 gallon and a 135 gallon. I know, it's obvious, the 135 gallon. The dimensions are 40"x26"x30". Overflow centered with two returns. It is high, but I think that is what I want as I can't opt for a longer tank at this time.

[golfish]

That's a pretty tall tank....How about getting one that's 30" wide\deep and 26" tall. Its a shame to spend so much money on the stuff that goes in the tank and settle for a tank that's really not what you want. The cost of the tank is small compared to all the other stuff. Just have one custom built.

[qwiksilver]

Originally Posted by golfish

That's a pretty tall tank....How about getting one that's 30" wide\deep and 26" tall. Its a shame to spend so much money on the stuff that goes in the tank and settle for a tank that's really not what you want. The cost of the tank is small compared to all the other stuff. Just have one custom built.

I have a wall that a tank that size will fit on. I can't go any wider, otherwise I would. Eventually I want a 6'x6'x3' in my basement. I know most people don't like taller tanks, but I really like the effect. Just my preference I guess!

[golfish]

its not about not liking them, its about lighting them. The taller the tank the more light your going to need. What kind of corals do you plan to keep?

[qwiksilver]

I know what you are saying about the lighting. Obviously the deeper the tank the higher intensity of light you will need. Thing is though, I don't want tons of Acros or SPS. I only want a blue acro and I already have the Montipora floriosa that I will keep, and it loves the hamilton 400W MH 20000k I have it under in my 54. I went with the 400 cause I knew I would be upgrading to a bigger tank. So, apart from those SPS corals, I will keep some LPS (euphyllia's sp., some blasto's, which prefer less intense light... I have the wellsi, trumpets, and a brown favite with blue center's), and the softies in the lower portion of the tank. I am going to have the 400 with 4 HO T5 Actinic's on the tank. The corals in my tank have exploded since I put the Halide on, so I am sure the 400 will do ok in the 135. I actually want to spread my corals out more so that I have ((((LARGE)))) colonies, rather than lots of little ones. If the corals don't respond that well.... which I am fairly certain they will do ok... then I will add more.

[golfish]

sure, with a single 400 you'll be bale top keep anything you want as long as you keep the light lovers closer to the light.You might find out later on you'll need 2x400's

[qwiksilver]

Thanks for the replies!