Another question on tank size...

[Abemas]

What is the tank size minimum needed to be sure one can house any species of fish they want? For instance, would a 125g leave me wanting aside from the number of fish I can handle?

Also, I think I read somewhere it is better to have a longer and wider tank than a shorter taller one. What is the thought behind this?

 

[Salttanker]

I tell this to everyone that is in the market for a new tank: "Get the biggest one your wallet will allow." A 125g is a good size, but you will eventually find yourself limited. I currently have a 90G, and I am going to get at least a 240+ tank for my new home in a few months. Longer a wider would be ideal for almost anything. Just remember, the initial setup of a larger tank will require more money invested towards this hobby. However, you won't regret it later.

Mike

 

[HooKooDooKu]

Also, I think I read somewhere it is better to have a longer and wider tank than a shorter taller one. What is the thought behind this?

More surface area for gas exchanges (O2 and CO2).

Rediculous example...
Tank #1, 1'x1' base and 16' high = 200 gal (ball-park number)
Tank #2, 4'x2' base and 2' high = 200 gal

Tank 1 only has 1 square foot of surface area
Tank 2 has 8 square feet of surface area

 

[nickthapainter]

don't forget tank depth affects lighting: deeper the tank, harder it is to light it throughout

 

[Abemas]

I tell this to everyone that is in the market for a new tank: "Get the biggest one your wallet will allow." A 125g is a good size, but you will eventually find yourself limited. I currently have a 90G, and I am going to get at least a 240+ tank for my new home in a few months. Longer a wider would be ideal for almost anything. Just remember, the initial setup of a larger tank will require more money invested towards this hobby. However, you won't regret it later.

Mike

Yeah I'd like to go as big as possible but what I am considering is sticking with something like a 125 until the day comes when I can afford (and have the home with the capabilites) to put a wall tank in. But then again maybe I should just go with a big free standing one initially and scrap the future wall tank out right.

When you say that a 125g limits you eventually...o you mean just as in the number of fish the tank can handle?