so, is this a dumb thought

[xsdbs]

I was curious about setting up a tank (like a 20 gallon or so) out on the back porch for during the summer months. I thought it would be cool to have and a great conversation piece when having friends over for a BBQ (of course the tank would not be near the BBQ). I was thinking that the natural sunlight would be good for a few corals and fish. I know that if you have a tank set up near a window that the sunlight coming thru the glass can cause algae blooms but I think that is because some of the light spectrum is washed out from the glass? My wife just gives me "that look" and I just tell her "it's just a little Robism". Thoughts please.

 

[Amphiprion]

The sunlight doesn't fuel algae blooms. Nutrients do. Get those under control and intense light will not be a problem. That make natural-lighted tanks a reality (and you'll find a lot of them, surprisingly). I would advise against one being outside, though, unless you have adequate cooling mechanisms in place and can protect the tank and all equipment from the weather.

 

[xsdbs]

Thanks Amp, it was just a fun type thought.

 

[FinFanatic]

You would probably have to protect the tank from critters as well! Cats, racoons, possums, etc.
But if you account for that, and the things, Amp brought up, I don't see why it can't be done.