Length or width, most important?

BlazinNano · Mar 16, 2011

What is more important. Length or width of a tank. I want a bigger tank for my fish only. I want something 8 feet long. I might be able to get one but I think it is only 12" wide. Is that worth it or would I want something wider?

SaraB · Mar 16, 2011

You'll want something wider than just 12" as that is nothing more than a really nice drinking trough for a horse ;)

I'd rather see something shorter and more depth. Even a standard 180G is 6' x 2'.

cparka23 · Mar 16, 2011

It was explained to me that a narrow tank can stress fish if it makes them turn around vertically, which is less natural. It might be an anecdote, so I'd also like to know if the claim has merit. Regardless, 12" is pretty narrow if you have rock or any kind of decor in the tank too.