Fdbk please on new 55gal aquascape

[MNscoe]

I'm setting up my first reef tank, going slow and learning much. Now that I've assembled my planned aquascape, I'd very much welcome any feedback before adding water, so posting a couple pics. It's a 55 gallon peninsula, visible from both sides. I wanted to create a sense of geology like shale or slanting rocks... Plan is to add 1" (or more?) of sand. One advice that stuck was to isolate islands to help manage coral "takeovers" in case that was needed, so I glued up 3 non-touching islands. Other design points: not too near the glass (for cleaning), lots of small crannies plus a "crevasse" and an arch, not too high to allow long-term growth (max of 15" in the 21" tall tank), topography is higher near the back for visual interest but with plenty of room (I presume) for the wave pump and lily pipes, lots of negative space near the "Front". These pics show two smaller rocks (with tie wraps) tossed in open spaces for now, but they're very optional if ya'll think it's good or bad.

Here's also a link to a quick video around the tank for more visualization: https://www.icloud.com/photos/#093Xj1gKDLE9aeVBmBuyibeoA

Thanks for any suggestions/concerns!

 

[Ron Reefman]

It looks nice. I'd consider drilling some holes in the rocks that are the size of the stem on a frag plug. It makes placing the coral super easy and holes disappear from view very quickly. They are still there for use, but they completely blend in with the rest of the rock's look.

 

[MikeyZo]

Agree with the drilling. Also, you might want to make one spot a little taller also, a little more rock is good for beneficial bacteria but also makes more placement of corals. But that’s just personal preference honestly. Also consider what you’re planning on keeping (sps vs lps and soft) and the lighting you’ll have… that may play a role in how tall you might want to make it.

But it looks great so far. Can’t wait to see it in action!

 

[chickendirt]

Thats some zenlike cantilever balancing you got going on there!!!! I think as things grow out you're going to have some really nice depth and layering of coloring. Also looks like it can accommodate flow nicely.

 

[MNscoe]

Agree with the drilling. Also, you might want to make one spot a little taller also, a little more rock is good for beneficial bacteria but also makes more placement of corals. But that’s just personal preference honestly. Also consider what you’re planning on keeping (sps vs lps and soft) and the lighting you’ll have… that may play a role in how tall you might want to make it.

But it looks great so far. Can’t wait to see it in action!

Thanks for the drilling suggestion (And @Ron Reefman ), wasn't even on my radar -- will look into it! My ultimate goal is to get an anemone, so wanted enough room for a hopefully big healthy one.

 

[MikeyZo]

Thanks for the drilling suggestion (And @Ron Reefman ), wasn't even on my radar -- will look into it! My ultimate goal is to get an anemone, so wanted enough room for a hopefully big healthy one

A little more rock and drilling won’t affect getting an anemone!