Which tank would you use?

[KDC]

I am wanting to set up a SH tank and I have to options. I own a 55g that is 36"Lx17.5"Dx20.5"T, and I even though I have a nice stand for this one, I will have to purchase lights. I am also looking at purchasing a 56G that is 30"Lx18"Dx24"T, but this one will need a new stand since the one that comes with it isn't large enough for a sump, but I have a T5 HO light strip that would fit it.
Then again, the 24"T tank is affordable enough that I could get it and use the shorter tank other for a sump. :idea:
Anyone else have an opinion on this, or an better idea?

 

[namxas]

I doubt a 36" long tank will fit beneath a 30" long tank unless the stand is longer than the 30" tank...

Another thing to consider is being able to reach the bottom of the tank, esp. if you run a canopy, which will add to the effective height.

Personally, I'd run the shorter tank. with 1" - 1.5" of substrate, you'll still have a 19" depth, which is plenty for most adult SH, and it will give them some extra lateral space.

 

[KDC]

Thanks namxas. I have heard that I needed at least 20 inches in height, and didn't want to cut it too close. I was also considering a pair of Yasha Ray Gobies. Does anyone have any experience with a red banded snapping shrimp and SH's?

 

[namxas]

The only reason for a "tall" SH tank is really to allow them to complete their coital spins during mating. Even then, it generally only makes a difference with inexperienced pairs. Unless you're super keen on rearing fry, 19" is PLENTY. IME, SH use more lateral space under "normal" conditions.

 

[KDC]

I usually go for more lateral tanks, hence my indecision. I may be able to get my hands on a Red Sea Max 250. If I can that will be the tank I'll set up. I'll just need to figure out how to plumb a refugium into it. That will give me a tank that is 38x21x26" (LxWxH), and 66 gallons. Best option all around as far as I can see.

 

[namxas]

If you go with a plug-n-play system, be sure you see what its intrinsic temperature is. Most of them run at least 5*F too warm, which makes a big difference with SH.

 

[KDC]

I have a chiller, and I just found out that the tank for sell is a 34g not a 66g. So now I'm not sure if I want to spend the money on the new tank or just work with the ones I have. The AIO is all contained and has hook ups for the chiller, but I already have the other tanks. They just need to drilled and I'll have to figure out all the plumbing and such.

 

[namxas]

Because of the types of fish we keep, we have a few "plug-n-play" setups, and they make nice QT/growout tanks, but you'd have a lot more options if you use a RR or drilled tank. FWIW, we don't use any of the "p-n-p" setups for Syngnathids.