New Tank Choice

[MWoods]

So I'm getting a new tank and can't decide if i want to get a 8L x 2.5W x 2H or a 5L x 3W x 2.5H. There's not a big difference in capacity but there is in appearance and setup options. I already have a 6L x 20"W x 2H and want another tank but larger. I like the idea of a wider tank so i can aquascape differently but i would prefer a longer tank then 5ft. It has to be out of these two options, i want a 2nd opinion. Which would you choose and why. And no reasons based on money or room capability. Purely based on appearance and aquascaping reasons.

PS: If you're wondering what I'm putting in the tank it's mostly coral with only a few fish such as wrasse, tangs and a lionfish. Possible epaulette shark.

 

[dave.m]

Personally, I think a wider tank is always better: more aeration at the surface, more options for arrangement of rock and coral, more realistic looking views. Too bad you can't find a tank 8'L x 3'W.

Dave.M

 

[MWoods]

I agree, plus i think fish have less stress with a wider tank as they can swim in a larger circumference rather than up and down a narrow corridor. I defiantly would like a 8ft tank however i would have to get it built into the house as it's too hard to carry up all my stairs. So costs are a lot higher with getting an 8ft. Where i can actually get the 5ft tank for free. But again ill rather pay money then not pay any money if I'm going to be more happy with the outcome.

 

[C Dog]

3' wide

 

[FuzzyZipperbaum]

Wide

 

[MWoods]

I'm guessing you guys are talking about the 5 by 3 when you say wide?

 

[Tremelle]

If you must have the shark, I would vote for the 8' tank. Otherwise I vote for the 5' x 3' wide tank. I am setting up a 5' x 3' x 29" tank myself right now.

 

[Cac986]

I would go with the 8 foot tank. Thirty inches is plenty of space to work with. I do agree that the wider the tank the more options you have with aquascaping. I had the same delemia but the 8 ft tank just looked so much larger to the eye. My fish love to swim from one side of the tank to the other and through out the rock work. I still was able to make the tank look great!

 

[MWoods]

Hmm i agree that the 8ft would look larger to the eye, but for me it's all about the fish. I want them to be in an environment that will make them happier. I kinda like the idea of a big square tank like 5 foot by 5 foot and like 2' height, and have just one large bomby in the middle peaking out of the water. However in the room it's going in, the width would be too much. I think i can work with 3ft max. 8ft is a good length, not too big not too small. However it's going to be costly to get it built in :S Also termelle i probably actually wouldn't bother with the shark to be honest. Kinda feel bad for sharks in house tanks, unless they're in massive tanks. Anyway thanks for the feedback guys.

 

[Vinny Kreyling]

A lot of folks I speak to say 3 W is tough to work on.
I had the new place set up with this in mind and still went down to 2.5 W