So I've been considering upgrading my tank. I've always had multiple tanks (at one time I had 4 tanks ranging from 20-75 gallons) and, since I am going back to school full time, would like to get it down to a single saltwater tank that will keep me happy for a few years. I really like the open and clean look of the rimless tanks but have a few concerns. I would love to hear from people who have rimless tanks and any benefits, problems, etc.
A few questions I have are:
1. Who to purchase from - I am on a rather tight budget so I am considering going through glass cages, despite their questionable reputation. Are there any other companies that I should consider?
2. Sizing - My house was obviously not built with a large fish tank in mind. The only place that I have to put a tank and have it viewable is a corner of the living room that is about 3.5'x3'. Any recommendations on tank dimensions, preferably in the 70-100 gallon range? I was considering a 36"x36"x? although maintanence might be a pain.
3. Fish Selection - I realize that having an open-top tank cuts down on the species I can have. I plan on keeping my clown fish (and maybe getting him a friend). I would also like a smaller tang (probably yellow or purple) and possibly a school of anthias. Are any of these fish likely to jump? I also have a Midas Blenny that I would really like to keep. I have heard blennies are known jumpers but I've never seen him jump (he hides in the rocks when spooked). How much of a risk is this? I do plan on keeping the water level a few inches below the rim.
4. Lighting/Evaporation - If heat isn't an issue, I would like to use a combination of T5s and halides (Something like this: http://www.fosterandsmithaquatics.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578%203733%2021459&pcatid=21459">http://www.fosterandsmithaquatics.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578%203733%2021459&pcatid=21459</a>). Would a single light fixture cover a 36"x36" tank if I placed corals appropriately? Also, how bad is the evaporation rate on the rimless tanks? Is an ATO mandatory?
5. Custom Stand - I would have to get a custom stand built and it would be great if I could find someone local. Any recommendations? Feel free to PM if you would rather not post this in the thread.
I think that is all the questions I have for now. Sorry if the post is a little lengthy, just want to make sure I'm thinking of this build realistically. Thanks in advance for any advice!
A few questions I have are:
1. Who to purchase from - I am on a rather tight budget so I am considering going through glass cages, despite their questionable reputation. Are there any other companies that I should consider?
2. Sizing - My house was obviously not built with a large fish tank in mind. The only place that I have to put a tank and have it viewable is a corner of the living room that is about 3.5'x3'. Any recommendations on tank dimensions, preferably in the 70-100 gallon range? I was considering a 36"x36"x? although maintanence might be a pain.
3. Fish Selection - I realize that having an open-top tank cuts down on the species I can have. I plan on keeping my clown fish (and maybe getting him a friend). I would also like a smaller tang (probably yellow or purple) and possibly a school of anthias. Are any of these fish likely to jump? I also have a Midas Blenny that I would really like to keep. I have heard blennies are known jumpers but I've never seen him jump (he hides in the rocks when spooked). How much of a risk is this? I do plan on keeping the water level a few inches below the rim.
4. Lighting/Evaporation - If heat isn't an issue, I would like to use a combination of T5s and halides (Something like this: http://www.fosterandsmithaquatics.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578%203733%2021459&pcatid=21459">http://www.fosterandsmithaquatics.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578%203733%2021459&pcatid=21459</a>). Would a single light fixture cover a 36"x36" tank if I placed corals appropriately? Also, how bad is the evaporation rate on the rimless tanks? Is an ATO mandatory?
5. Custom Stand - I would have to get a custom stand built and it would be great if I could find someone local. Any recommendations? Feel free to PM if you would rather not post this in the thread.
I think that is all the questions I have for now. Sorry if the post is a little lengthy, just want to make sure I'm thinking of this build realistically. Thanks in advance for any advice!
