Option 1 or Option 2
- Thread starter ArizonaReefer
- Start date
This where the tank would go.
With Option 2 would I have to paint the backside black to help inhibit algae growth? I don't think I would be able to clean the backside very well.
NaClH20NMYVEIN
Red Dragons!
Either one will look amazing, but I would go with #2, JMO.
sfsuphysics
Active member
Ok going by that picture you showed, I honestly don't see how a "peninsula" style tank would be useful, it looks like you're blocking half of it, in which case go with option 1 without a doubt. If you want to paint the "back" black I would freak out that you honestly are considering painting a 6 foot long pane of starphire, you're wasting money.
Going by the two tanks you showed. I honestly would worry about the effectiveness of that overflow over an 8 foot length, you'll need some serious back current along the surface to get gunk from one end to the overflow. While you could also do that with a closed loop manifold or something, the fact you said you liked the look of the eurobracing tells me you don't want to ugly it up with PVC piping.
Also you mentioned Vortechs, realistically you have one wall to put them along the back, and limited space at that. Having had Vortechs on a 6 foot long tank I can tell you they don't really have the "oomph" to push 8 feet with much strength. Yes you an place them at both ends, but again you kind of negate the whole point of doing a peninsula tank. With the first option, 4 vortechs on the backwall would work wonders 2 in the center part, 1 on either side of the overflows.
So yeah Option 1 is my choice, also how thick is the glass, I know starphire is "clearer" but take a look at the glass, clarity might not even be an issue on the non-starphire version.
talk to your LFS to see about getting one of the marineland "deep dimension" series, they have 36" width, however only 6 foot length, but starphire is an option on the front pane.
Going by the two tanks you showed. I honestly would worry about the effectiveness of that overflow over an 8 foot length, you'll need some serious back current along the surface to get gunk from one end to the overflow. While you could also do that with a closed loop manifold or something, the fact you said you liked the look of the eurobracing tells me you don't want to ugly it up with PVC piping.
Also you mentioned Vortechs, realistically you have one wall to put them along the back, and limited space at that. Having had Vortechs on a 6 foot long tank I can tell you they don't really have the "oomph" to push 8 feet with much strength. Yes you an place them at both ends, but again you kind of negate the whole point of doing a peninsula tank. With the first option, 4 vortechs on the backwall would work wonders 2 in the center part, 1 on either side of the overflows.
So yeah Option 1 is my choice, also how thick is the glass, I know starphire is "clearer" but take a look at the glass, clarity might not even be an issue on the non-starphire version.
talk to your LFS to see about getting one of the marineland "deep dimension" series, they have 36" width, however only 6 foot length, but starphire is an option on the front pane.
I have almost exhausted all attempts to get a Marineland 300. I have contacted Marineland directly and they are trying to find me some where locally.
I received a price from somewhere local who get their tanks from Le-Mar but it was obvious that they wanted me to get one of their tanks instead when they quoted a standard Marineland 300 for $2,900.
sfsuphysics
Active member
yikes $2900? Was that JUST the tank? Because I've seen somewhere in that ballpark for tank/stand/canopy + starphire.
Lowredranger
New member
I got a quote for a 72x36x24 270g as a peninsular with 3 sides starphire and black silicone for $1750. That includes shipping to the area but it is a glass cages tank. I know the others can get ridiculously priced. I am thinking if i can afford it do put it in the middle of the room coming off the wall with a bar around it.
Tank only and priced so I would buy one of their tanks instead
garrettm85
New member
This is just way to hard of a choice, that I can tell. Given your situation it seems almost pointless to go with the pen. tank. If there was any way to have it be 3 side veiwable, this would completely change the logic. The pen tank is clearly superior if setup pen. If not, then it seems that the 300 is the way to go. More volume, more room for corals and fish, and not that it matters too much, but $600 is $600. I would say go with option number 1.
It just seems logical in your particular situation. If you had other options than the two you are looking at now, I would be interested to see if you could find a tank that is a bit wider with starphire like that of the marineland. I know it seems impossible to come by at this time, but I am sure that you can find a good builder or track one down.
Garrett
It just seems logical in your particular situation. If you had other options than the two you are looking at now, I would be interested to see if you could find a tank that is a bit wider with starphire like that of the marineland. I know it seems impossible to come by at this time, but I am sure that you can find a good builder or track one down.
Garrett
Now an Option 3
Now an Option 3
After reading the replies it made since to go with Option 1 (the 300) because I would not be going peninsula.
Last night I walked into another LFS who has a few display tanks along with one that they have yet to fill. So I had to ask "are you guys ever going to use that and if not can I buy it" He give the owner a quick call and now I have another choice.
Option 3 (same price as Option 1)
250 Gallon Tank
96L x 30W x 20H
Euro-Braced - (no cross members to get in the way)
Overflow on back wall
Drilled for a "Closed Loop"
Option 3
Reminder of Option 1
Now an Option 3
After reading the replies it made since to go with Option 1 (the 300) because I would not be going peninsula.
Last night I walked into another LFS who has a few display tanks along with one that they have yet to fill. So I had to ask "are you guys ever going to use that and if not can I buy it" He give the owner a quick call and now I have another choice.
Option 3 (same price as Option 1)
250 Gallon Tank
96L x 30W x 20H
Euro-Braced - (no cross members to get in the way)
Overflow on back wall
Drilled for a "Closed Loop"
Option 3
Reminder of Option 1
sfsuphysics
Active member
While I don't particular like the single overflow in that over that 8 foot span, option 3 seems to give you the best of what you wanted in option 2 (minus the starphire) along with a completely open top. My old tank was 20" or so high, my new temp one is 24" it seems like a world of difference, but in reality it could be that my stand is just taller 
That closed loop is nice too even if you don't use it you can simply cap the pipes until you want to.
That closed loop is nice too even if you don't use it you can simply cap the pipes until you want to.
Yes, the closed loop is appealing. I currently have an Ocean Motion 4-way of my 120 that I will be transferring to the new tank.
I guess with the added flow of a closed loop, the amount that I have going through the sump is less important as long as the skimmer gets what it needs?
In regards to the 20" height I'm thinking it is less of an issue because it will be Bare-Bottom with a "RDSB" so there won't be that 3-4 inches of space that sand would be taking up in the display tank.
Off the main topic but speaking of skimmers, this is what I currently have.
I have never been happy with how little I get out of it.
Is it possible to get a "Red Dragon" pump and adapt it to fit?
I like the overall quality of my skimmer I just don't think the pump is very good.
I have never been happy with how little I get out of it.
Is it possible to get a "Red Dragon" pump and adapt it to fit?
I like the overall quality of my skimmer I just don't think the pump is very good.
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