Low tide in a reef?

[zachfishman]

I was getting to thinking yesterday, it could be pretty neat (at least in large systems) to have a "low tide" time of the day. Think of a 6-8ft long, 3ft tall DT with at least one LR "crest" with SPS growing right to the surface that would get exposed (or nearly exposed) when the water level in the system drops 6" or so. Now add a strong wavebox and you've got something pretty neat!

Not only would it be visually interesting, but this "low tide" would increase light penetration to lower levels of the DT as well as increase the potential of wave action to dislodge and transport detritus. Just a thought.

I'll post pics after I win the lottery and build this thing. :lmao:

 

[thegrun]

Most of the coras I keep do not live in the tidal zone but are under water all the time. That said, I've seen a few tanks set up that way at public aquariums.