How Big Should I Go?

[WaywardSon]

I am getting ready to put together another planted tank.

I have the space for anything from a 75 gallon up to a 180.

My question is how big can I go and still run what I call a simple setup: 2 canister filters, etc. I don't want to jump up and have to drill the tank, plumb fixtures, etc - way, way over my head.

Thanks for the feedback!

:headbang2:

 

[Riiz]

I would go as big as possible, so many possibilities. Also in a planted tank, your filtration doesnt have to do a whole lot but keep the water clear.

 

[Bk718]

i would go with a 75. Mainly because once you go for the 100g+ you start working with
1- expensive light fixtures
2- need excellent filtration
3- if you use co2 will need more (diy wont cut it) and obviously more ferts (dry all the way)
4- and finally one main thing is the crazy water changes.

 

[mr.key]

75g would be my choice. If you did do a planted 100+ it would be doable if you made it a lowlight setup (the huge tank of moss I dream about) and kept the stocking light.

 

[tanker]

A 120gal.--depending on the dimensions (not all tanks are standard size).

Nice size and (IMO) not too big. 2 canisters would be great on this size tank (I run to magnums on my 100gal).

 

[Riiz]

A 120gal.--depending on the dimensions (not all tanks are standard size).

Nice size and (IMO) not too big. 2 canisters would be great on this size tank (I run to magnums on my 100gal).

Exactly something with a depth that can be easily lit with HO T5 or CFL, which are relatively cheap compared to Metal Halide.

 

[DrNo]

i would go with a 75. Mainly because once you go for the 100g+ you start working with
1- expensive light fixtures
2- need excellent filtration
3- if you use co2 will need more (diy wont cut it) and obviously more ferts (dry all the way)
4- and finally one main thing is the crazy water changes.

As a 125 gallon owner..... Amen!

 

[krytan]

If you can house a 180g would you be happy with anything smaller?

 

[WaywardSon]

I do have room for a 180. The prices do jump up significantly - tank, lighting, etc.

My biggest concern with a 180 is filtration. I definitely want a tank that can be "easily" filtered by 2 canisters (I don't want to plumb, cut, etc). Right now I run 2 Fluval 305's on my 45 gallon - overkill, perhaps a little - but "must" have CRYSTAL water.

Can 2 canisters effectively filter a 180 is my biggest question?

 

[krytan]

Yes if the canisters are big enough.
I have a fluval 404, 304 and an eheim 2224 on my 180g.