Do plain cubes exist

[Machiavelli]

After about 2 years I've decided to fall off the wagon again and start reefing, this time in the form of a nano tank (something my poor 2nd floor condo floorboards can support).

I'd originally been looking at a 16gal bowfront but it looks like that would be too tall and would reduce light penetration. So my first question is whether there are 16 gal (or thereabouts) cubes without a bunch of fixings. I keep seeing the JBJ cubes and other setsups that have built in filtration but I dont need any of that as I already have an overflow and plan on using a sump.

My second question regards lighting. I simply cannot find clear info on what lighting to use. Assuming I end up with a standard square ~16gal, what kind of lighting would I need to handle the high end stuff, say maximas or SPS? I really really would like to avoid metal halides if at all possible. While I love the shimmer and the light output, the heat is simply staggering and my electrical bill just about tripled. Using fans on the sump worked but it also vastly increased my evaporation rate.

Any help would be appreciated.

 

[NanoKat]

You should check into t-5's. I think they start at 24", so it may fit your application. I've seen many clams thriving under them, they run cooler, and use alot less energy than halides.

 

[Nishant3789]

its going to be difficult if not impossible to find t5 lights for a tank that small. all the ones you will find will be normal output t5s which i suppose if you could load like 12 of them into the space with individual reflectors may be decent for sps and clams. your best bet with a 16 cube is probalby to just build one your self, its not that difficult. they do make a 30 gallon cube thats just a simple glass tank

 

[tonkadawg]

I have a 16 gal bow with 250HQI - heat is a problem, but fans have done wonders. I was looking for a t5 setup as well, but I was not able to find anything small enough.

 

[puddldude]

I have a little 150w on my 16 bow in my office and heat is not a huge problem for me, but it stays really cool in my office about 69 to 70 year round. The tank is usually about 80 to 82 degrees

 

[Machiavelli]

I like the 150Watt HQI Sunpod, so I will likely go in that direction. Any aquascaping concerns in using a bowfront vs a cube?