Considering a new tank build....

So I have a 45 gallon, tall style, tank that's just been sitting around for ages, i am now debating if i should fill it up or not. The reasons im not sure are:

1. I have no stand for it, minus a wood table and while the table is strong, idk if it can hold all the weight. Could i put a couple cinderblocks under the table to support the weight?

2. Should i wait to have the tank drilled for a sump/fuge?

3. Should i go bare bottom or crushed coral?

4. I took the stock lighting off my biocube 14 and put it over the 45, is that enough light to grow coralline on that size tank?

TIA

 

If I had to do it over again, I would get a tank that is drilled right from the factory and it would be a big one.

If you like the look of CC then I would go CC.
I had a BC29 and the stock lighting was not the best. You might need to upgrade...

 

1: No. you should get a proper stand/cabinet.

2: A sump/fuge is not a necessity, but if you want one, then yes, get the tank drilled first.

3: I'd prefer CC over BB. Keep in mind, CC will need to be vacuumed occasionally.

4: Contrary to popular belief, coralline does not require intense light. The proper spectrum along with good cal, mag and alk levels are all you need.

 

i agree with Mr. Bill except for number 4, i was told you need 6 watts per gallon to keep coral. so i dont think you have enuff!

 

The question was concerning coralline algae, not corals. While the watts per gallon rule was thrown out the window a few years ago, I would still agree that he needs more light for most corals (some low-light softies might thrive).

FWIW, I only have 1.65 watts per gallon on my tank, and I have corals that had trouble acclimating.