Thninking about planting My Tank

[alfbennett]

Here's the story.

I just got a pre-populated 40-50 gallon bowfront (haven't actually measured it but I'm guessing 46 gallons) prepopulated with fish. Being new, I already got advice for the fish in the noob forum.

I am thinking about planting the tank. One question I have, and have not found an answer for is How deep of a tank is to deep for planting? I know the depth of the watercolumn is extreemly important when dealing with other light sensitive organisms (like corals and anemones), so my assumption is that this is something I should consider.

Currently the tank has decrotive gravel and an undergravel filter. both of which will be replaced with a soil/sandbed, and I figured I would move on from there to lighting, then to CO2 then to plants. Anyway, that is the plan, but actual activity is a month or more away while I study the subject first.

 

[bazil323]

I don't think there is such a thing. Just that it will make a difference on the amount of light you will need. Deeper tanks need stronger lighting, I think. But I'm no expert.

 

[snoopy65]

I had a 65 hex that was 29" deep. Getting enough light to the bottom for anything more than low light plants was nearly impossible because of the depth and the footprint being so small (not enough room on top for more lights). I think if you are willing to spend on the lighting, you will be fine with that tank as there is room to put enough light.

 

[alfbennett]

I'll get the real dimensions and volume of the tank tonight and post that up here.

My initial though on lighting was 2 10k lights or one 10k and 1 50/50. I think that will mostly depend on the plants. Again, I may be way off-base as well. I'll do my research. A couple of 10k lights shouldn't brake the bank though.