Can a frag tank be too deep?

[Photobug]

I am looking to set up a small frag tank on the cheap. I have a stand that is next to my display tank that holds ATO reservoir and other supplies. It is 32" long. I was initially going to use a 20G long tank which has the dimens of 30x13x 12 deep for a frag tank. Now I am thinking a 29 gallon which is 18" deep would work also and allow me to have a few fish in there as well that I do not want it the main tank.

I would do bare bottom with a few rocks underneath but have a few eggcrate shelves near the surface and some a little lower for different light need corals. The frag tank would share the sump with the DT. Is there any disadvantage to having a deeper frag tank?

 

[Donkeykong]

Depends on what frags you have in there, if it is going to be all high light SPS, then that means you will have to have more light, but if you are planning on having a good mix from zoas to SPS, then having a tall tank with shelves works better so you can have the stuff at the appropriate level for there needs.

 

[Spar]

too deep - no, because as you already suggested you can just use eggcrate to lift them higher

too large - depends on your pocket book i guess - the extra 'depth' is just more water you will need to account for (dosing, etc) - then again, the extra water makes for nice buffer, so a trade off.

take advantage of the height by making a staircase series of eggcrate ledges. that way you can start low and raise them up over time. just make sure to leave room for siphoning/cleaning.