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I would say definitely on the larger tanks. There are braces that give the sides bracing and support. My 125 has 3 braces and my 55 has one. I imagine, even on the smaller tanks, they do support the corners....
I must agree with Scott, they do have a structural purpose. In both my 125 & 135, there are 3 braces. I would guess they also provide structure against any bowing of the glass.