Dividing 1 tank into 2 species tanks?

[Onedeadbob]

Hey everyone

I wanted to get a 40g (24"x24"x17") cube as a species specific tank for a pair of clowns and BTA. When I looked, the price for the 75g (48"x18"x21") is about the same (~$150). So I thought, why not 2 species tanks right next to each other; a pair of black and white ocellaris in one and a pair of gsm in the other.

Is it feasible to take a 48" tank and create 2 24" tanks using a divider; I was thinking of creating a rockwall using agrocrete/eggcrate. Also, have the return split to both sides of the tank and use a horizontal overflow/bean style drain.

Anyone see any glaring issues or maybe have some advice?

Thanks in advance!

 

[100%hydrophylic]

why not? i have actually been thinking about applications for such a division. only thing that would annoy me is how the divider would look.

i probably wouldnt make it possible for the two clown pairs to see each other. my lfs had a pair of clowns for a while and if they put a clown in the little cubicle thing next to them they would swim sporadically on the pane of glass separating the tanks flaring their fins and hitting their heads on the glass. they looked angry.

 

[Saltwaternooby]

My growout tanks are acrylic and have 2 dividers, go get ideas from your LFS. But like said above make sure they don't see each other.

 

[USF Nealio]

When you divide it, look into getting dark glass, or come up with an idea to prevent them from seeing each other. If they don't get along in the same tank, that will still stress each other out if they can still see one another.

 

[Dan]

Here is my 150.

It used to be divided into 3 sections of 50 gallons each (24x24x20), but circumstances are such that it was further divided. The dividers are 1/4" black acrylic with tooth-top edges. They may not be natural looking, but the tank is more utilitarian this way.

Dan

 

[Onedeadbob]

Thanks for all the replies guys. I am thinking I will make a rock wall divided, maybe 1in thick. I think that will keep them from seeing each other.

That is a nice 150 setup Dan. How big is each cubicle?

 

[Dan]

About 25 gallons each (12x24x20). I like the idea of a rock wall. However, real rock may be a bit heavy and unstable at 1 inch thick. Perhaps the folks who make those saltwater safe, resin corals can manufacture sheet rock walls, where the hobbyist can cut to fit. That would be cool. Much better than those ugly foam types I have seen.

Dan

 

[Onedeadbob]

I will see what I can find about fake-rockwalls. If I decide to do this I will make sure to put up a build-thread.