Better Aquarium dimension 57gal(36x18x20) vs 55gal(48x13x20)

[vikkid]

Which dimensions allow better stocking options ie. More fish/coral options.
Note: both options include a 20 gallon sump.

 

[JC1977]

I always aim for bigger footprint. A 4 foot tank that’s 13 inches wide seems like horrible dimensions lol.

 

[vikkid]

I always aim for bigger footprint. A 4 foot tank that’s 13 inches wide seems like horrible dimensions lol.

Thanks for your response; appreciate your thoughts. How about a shallow tank ie 60gal (48x24x12)?

This would be wonderful for corals I suppose, but what about fish? Wondering what limitations for types of fish a shallow tank poses.
By the way, what is the ultimate purpose of shallow tank?

 

[JC1977]

Thanks for your response; appreciate your thoughts. How about a shallow tank ie 60gal (48x24x12)?

This would be wonderful for corals I suppose, but what about fish? Wondering what limitations for types of fish a shallow tank poses.
By the way, what is the ultimate purpose of shallow tank?

The footprint is good would make a killer frag tank but 12” is a tad short for most fish IMO.

 

[danenelsen]

I would go for one of them with longer length, especially if you want tangs, so I would pick the 55 or the 60.

 

[vikkid]

I would go for one of them with longer length, especially if you want tangs, so I would pick the 55 or the 60.

I would love to be able to raise tangs, but I'm told that nothing below 75 for Tangs. I think the 55 is to small a width and the 60 is to allow for Tangs, No?

 

[VintageReefer]

55g is difficult because it’s too narrow.
40 breeder is an excellent tank for making a nice layout and having space and your 57 is a bigger version. I vote 57. That would be a good platform to work with

 

[Gill the 3rd]

I would go with the 57. The 55 is too narrow and makes placing rockwork and corals difficult.

 

[danenelsen]

I would love to be able to raise tangs, but I'm told that nothing below 75 for Tangs. I think the 55 is to small a width and the 60 is to allow for Tangs, No?

You will get mixed opinions, but you should be able to keep smaller species like the Tomini and the Kole. I’ve heard that you need at least 4’ long.