Aquascaping

[90galguy]

I added this same post in my build thread, but decided to add it here as well to see if I could get some input before I mark all the locations of the rocks so I can make sure I put it in the tank in the same formation........

I received 60lbs of BRS Pukani Dry Rock from a friend that purchased way too much for his own aquarium! Lucky me got it for only $2.00 a pound!:yay:

The blue lines on the ground represent the outline of my 90gal tank. Does anyone have any thoughts/suggestions on the layout of the rock? I added some archways, a few caves and a little "island" rock out front. I probably have more space to slide some of the pieces to the back a touch as well.

My only issue is that I like it, but I haven't accounted for any live rock to add to the system for cycling purposes. I have 30 lbs. of "live" sand to add as well. Do you think I could do without the live rock? I know it will probably take quite a bit longer for the cycle as well. Any suggestions on what to do to speed up the process if I choose not to add any "live" rock?
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[cooper]

I really like the shape and layout here; however, you are way too close to the tank's sides with this layout. You need to leave enough room for a magnetic cleaner to pass by so that you can clean the tank. Otherwise, you will end up with an algae spot. You may also end up with some water flow dead zones.

 

[90galguy]

Good Point! I have some room to play with so I don't think I'll have an issue tightening up the entire layout and keeping it relatively the same. Thank's for the heads up!

 

[insomnia]

I like really like the design. You could try putting the life rock in the sump in the beginning to help with the cycle.

 

[tchristman]

Design looks very nice. I second that you are too close to the sides. It is really nice with flow and cleaning to have a lot of room. I can say that now that I have a 36" deep tank. My rock is at least 6-8 inches from the walls and it makes a huge difference. Especially with flow.

 

[flake]

Is the tank drilled? have you accounted for the overflow?

 

[90galguy]

Yes. It's drilled in the back left of the aquarium. I do have it marked off, but I don't think you can see it in the pictures. I have some room to move the rock to the back glass except where the overflow is. Can I stack against the back wall or should I leave space on all 4 sides of the aquarium?

 

[irahmatulla]

I really like the look of that scape. The 2nd and 4th pictures seem like I see area where you can put flat pieces across. This would make more of a shelf/cave for coral to set on, and also would be ideal for live rock for seed.

Edit: on the right and left in front. I dunno if anyone else sees that. Also, small pieces of very porous rock could be set all over. Or laid directly on the sand close to the rock, and eventually moved to the sump after a few weeks of letting the critters get onto the base rock.