Getting Back in the Game

[greenesgreen]

I've been out of the saltwater game for several years now, work travel/babies/buying and selling homes, etc. All that fun stuff. Well I was just recently given 3 tanks along with sumps, pumps, MH/t5 combo, tons of rock, and I need help deciding how to proceed. I have complete setups (minus skimmers) for either a 55 gal long (48' long) or a 50 gal tall (31" tall). I like the idea of the tall tank and thinking of making the entire back glass a rock wall to the surface and stocking with LPS and a few clownfish, maybe add a couple of nems next year. The long tank is appealing because of the much greater horizontal viewing area and would definitely increase my livestock choices. Im currently 2 weeks into cooking my rock and figure another few weeks they'll be ready for action. Any input on which tank to roll with? I'll probably sell the remaining 2 and excess equipment to fund my skimmer and sand. Thanks in advance!

 

[mcgyvr]

IMO a 55g makes a crappy reef tank due to it being so narrow front to back..
Not sure what the complete dimensions on your 50g tall are either

IMO 18" front to back is the minimum I'd ever want in a reef tank and I'm loving my new tank with a 24" depth..

 

[greenesgreen]

The 50 tall has s 20" side, but I'm afraid I have another issue. Evidently the previous owner let water sit half full in the tank for an extended period and there's a mean water stain that's giving me hell. Tried vinegar and a scrub pad today and made a little progress. What else could I try?

 

[greenesgreen]

Well after much effort with vinegar, bar keepers helper, and razor blades the tall 50 gal is unsaveable. Seems like the water line has etched into the glass. My only other option is the 55 long. Not exactly ideal for my plans but I only have free tanks to work with. I'll start a build thread shortly for anyone interested.