Can't decide..convert 60g or find a 120-150g

[FLreefDad]

Finally got permission from the MRS to start a reef tank!

I currently have a 60g freshwater tank - 12.75 in L x 48.5 in W x 25 in H - it's a MarineLand (tempered bottom). I would put a ghost overflow in and putting a 30g sump. This already has a stand but I'd have to rebuild a new one to be able to hold a sump. My fear is, the tank width will be an issue scaping and I won't be happy with the results.

OR I keep the freshwater 60G going and find a decent or new 120g or 150g tank. Ivan build my own stand (carpentry is another hobby).

This would be my first reef attempt so curious on others thoughts.

 

[ichthyogeek]

Go for the 120 or 150; 60 gallons seems small, but a lot of the fish that people seem to like when they enter the hobby (yellow tangs, for instance) really just need a bigger tank. Also more stable water parameters, more room for corals, etc. etc.

That is...if you have the cash. If you do, go for this^^, if not...it's really up to you.

 

[thegrun]

For a reef tank the 12.75" dimension is a no go IMHO, there just isn't enough room for corals. I would say an absolute minimum would be 18" front to back, 24" is much better and 30" is perfect.

 

[Sk8r]

The smallest marine fish mature at about 3"-5"; many of the more popular ones can hit a foot in length, not mentioning mass of annoyed fish. Larger and longer is better. Corals also grow and reproduce faster than advertised. Unless they're expensive. There's a reason for this.

 

[Ztous]

Bigger is better more options all around. I've seen 120s touted as the best bang for your buck for a variety of reasons.