jackhoekstra
Community Member
- Joined
- Jan 27, 2026
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Pictured is my 55g Clear For Life acrylic tank. It is 4 months old now. It houses a pair of clowns, a Neon Cleaner Goby, 3 turbo snails, and a Waving Hand Anthelia. All are happy and healthy.
1.) Tank dimensions
I wish I had gone with a shorter tank with a greater width. My tank is tall and narrow, which limits me to stacking the rockwork in more of a wall formation. My plan is to place taller, fast-growing soft corals ( Kenya Tree) toward the back, with smaller corals like zoanthids in the front to create some sense of depth and fill out the empty space up top.
That said, I actually like the vintage 1990s reef style where reefers stacked a large wall of natural ocean rock and packed it with corals. I do see beauty in the classic “fruit stand” look. But If I had a wider tank, I would probably aim for something more along the lines of a Julian Sprung style scape, but I’ll make the best of what I have.
2.) Filtration choices
I relied on ChatGPT for advice and was told that a sump wasn’t necessary for my setup, and that my Fluval 307 canister filter would be sufficient. After reading more on this forum, I’m realizing that relying solely on a canister filter is risky, requires frequent maintenance, and can become a nitrate factory.
Also, it seems like literally everyone on here has a sump.
Because of this, I do plan on setting up a sump. I’m currently thinking something in the 25-30 gallons. Hope I can explain this investment to the wife- "no honey, this is not a second fish tank. I swear"
3.) Overflow limitations
This tank has very small openings at the top. The acrylic is fairly thin, so to compensate, it has a permanent euro-brace style top. Because of this, finding a HOB overflow box that will fit properly has been difficult, and I may need to have one custom made.
I would really appreciate any advice from experienced reefers. This forum has been incredibly helpful, and I honestly haven’t seen this much positivity anywhere else online.
Plan: Before making more decisions and investments: I will read Julian Sprung's "The Reef Aquarium Vol III" cover to cover. If anyone else has any book recommendations, please share.
Thanks!
