Is 48" wide (front to back depth) too wide?

Seancj · Mar 8, 2023

I'm planning a new tank and have been strongly considering a 48" width (front to back depth). The tank's overall all measurements will be either 72" x 48" x 20" or 60" x 48" x 20". I've actually even considered a 60"x 60" x 20".
It's going to be a Magnifica anemone specific reef with a shallow rock structure, and, hopefully, blanketed by beautiful anemones.
A couple of issues are coming up however. First, a 48" wide tank will require a much wider top brace and cross bracing, which I really don't want as this tank will be a tide pool type set up with a lower stand height for top down viewing. Second, I'm now wondering now if 48" is too wide for clear viewing, meaning will I be able to see that far back and enjoy the coloration and details of the anemones placed farther back in the tank when viewed from the front? Third, cost. A 48" wide tank at the above dimensions will cost about $500 more than a 36" wide.
Anyone with 48" wide tanks care to offer personal experiences? Any regrets going that wide for either viewing or maintenance reasons?
Any advice and opinions welcome!
Thanks!
Oh, here is my current anemone reef that I hope to upgrade to a much large scale:

Joj · Mar 8, 2023

I love deep dimension tanks. Mines were just fowlr, but the depth gives it 3D look and feel. Landscaping is easier too with different layers front to back.

96x48x30 & currently 72x48x36

Devaji · Mar 8, 2023

Dang that is a nice tank!!

can you make it peninsula so you can walk around it? then i would say 48" so problem even a 60" is do able.

maybe even a cube tank with ceter overflow so you can walk around all 4 sides

Devaji · Mar 8, 2023

Joj said:
I love deep dimension tanks. Mines were just fowlr, but the depth gives it 3D look and feel. Landscaping is easier too with different layers front to back.

96x48x30 & currently 72x48x36

are those the fiberglass tanks i see on FB adds? ( you can tell what i use Fb for when the adds are all fish stuff..lol)