Suggestions on Tank Size?

[musicgirl1217]

I've been looking at different tanks to upgrade from my present 20g. Space limitations are keeping me at nothing larger than 48". I presently have LR and soft corals (obviously I want to add more), but I'd also like to add a few fish: a pair of clowns and a blue hippo tang (or maybe a trigger). Right now I only have 2 damsels.

Based on that stock, what is everyone's experience - length of tank over the width, or doesn't it matter? A 46 gallon bowfront is 36x16x21, a 55 gallon rectangular is 48x13x20, and 72 bowfront is 48x18x22. I'm not doing a sump at this time and kind of shying away at jumping to the 72g.

Any input is greatly appreciated!

 

[RCS]

Honestly, I wouldn't do a hippo tang in a 3-4' tank. They stress easily and can grow over a foot in length. I'd be careful witht he trigger as well, as some of them grow rather large and can be nippy.

A 55 is the standard large tank, and thus much cheaper than the other options. There are lots of benefits to going 4 feet, lighting included.

The guy who bought my 46 bow also has a 46 bow tank for sale...I believe it may be oak trimmed but I'd have to ask. He said he'd let it go cheap...but you'd need the stand and accessories for it.

Not sure if the whitewashed oak would fit in with your decor, but it's a nice sized tank (58g) without taking up a alot of room (36"x18").