Tank size opinion - which is a better size

[Olathereefer]

I am wanting to upgrade to a custom peninsula tank and I am debating between two sizes based on the space I have available. The first is 60”L x 30”W x 28” tall. The second option is 72”L x 24”W x 28” tall. I have always been a fan of the wider tanks for the aquascaping options. I wanted to see what pros and cons other members may have when comparing these two tank sizes that I may be overlooking. It will be a mixed reef setup.

 

[billdogg]

How long are your arms? I would do a mock-up out of cardboard or something and see if you can reach to all the areas you will need to get to. If possible, I'd go with the wider tank as well.

 

[alton]

I am 6 - 4" and I love my 30" deep and 25" tall tank. If it was 28" tall I probably could not reach the back. You stated peninsula so with being able to reach from both sides 30" x 28" would look a lot better than 24" deep x 28" tall

 

[Misled]

I'm a fan of the 30 wide. Makes great viewing from the front.

 

[HumbleFish]

I'd personally go with the 60”L x 30”W x 28” tall option.

 

[MarkW64]

I love my 72 long 24 wide 31 high peninsula. If I could change one dimension though it would be the width "” wish I had 30-36! But would I give up a foot of length to get the extra width? I really don't know...

 

[lionfish300]

If that the 2 choices I would go with 60x30x28

 

[laverda]

What fish do you plan to keep? Take that into consideration. Longer tanks are better for open water tangs for instance.

 

[supra400hptt]

I'd go with the 30 wide.

 

[paal]

I'm running a 40-30(wide)-20 peninsula myself (semi-peninsula; the short side if 50% blocked by a chimney)

Even on a tank that small I would not want anything narrower; I don't want the rockwork/coral too close to any viewing side of the tank AND I want the rockwork laid out in a bit more interestingly or random way, not just in a straight line down the center of a narrow tank.

 

[deansreef]

ive got a 60" x 36" x 24" tall and love it!

 

[clevername]

I love my 72 long 24 wide 31 high peninsula. If I could change one dimension though it would be the width "” wish I had 30-36! But would I give up a foot of length to get the extra width? I really don't know...

Have to agree

 

[cody6766]

Always go as wide as you can fit/afford. You just can't beat the depth you get for your aquascape. This is more important for a peninsula tank since you can't work your rocks all the way to the back (except for flow channels) like you can with a traditionally viewed tank. I'd go with the wider of the two for sure.

While length is important for tangs, it's not the end-all-be-all. Swimming volume is key. What you give up in length of swim, you'll gain in their ability to swim in/out of the rocks and circle the tank. Just be sure you set your rocks up so you fish and flow can work in/around the structures. Use negative space for 'swim through' and hiding spots.

 

[hkgar]

What fish do you want to keep. Tangs, as an example need as much linear feet for swimming as possible, therfore 72. My tank is 72 x 24 x 24
https://photos.app.goo.gl/ijtMq5Yc5aTaheWV6