Ideal depth for reef tank?

[surgeonfish]

My current reef tank is 48" deep and almost 6' to the back corner. I find it too deep for a reef tank as the bottom is only accessible by using long tongs (very frustrating). I was considering converting it to a fish only system and starting a new reef tank in the basement once we start renovations (not again). I was thinking of a 100-200 gal system. How deep should I make the rectangular tank? Should I go for 24" or 30" deep? Does anyone with a 30" tank find it too deep? For once I want to be able to reach the bottom of the tank with my hands.

[michika]

My 230g was 32" and it was way too deep for me. It kind of depends on your arm length I believe. For me about 26" works best, but who knows, your arms are probably much loner then mine.

[ponokareefer]

When I got me current tank, the deepest I wanted it was 24" so I could reach the bottom. Any longer and it just turns into a nightmare if you drop anything.

[Redrover]

My old tank was a 150/48"deep, I got tired of using tongs and it seems every time your working in the tank your at the bottom
New tank 120/24" deep and I love it...

[christyf5]

Don't forget about whether you're running a sandbed or not. My 24" deep (90gal) tank was fine before I removed the sandbed. Now I struggle for that last couple of inches and usually have to get out the forceps. Next time I'd do 20-22".

[Manny]

Mine is 25" and it can be a PTA sometimes.

[Manny]

By the way, do you have any pics of your tank :) I would like to see them.

[surgeonfish]

Manny
Here is a link to pictures of my tank
http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=27057

It sounds like approx 24" is the height to build.

[MikeP]

My tank is 30in deep and it's a bit of a pain. I would say 24 to even... 28 would be nicer to work in. I guess it depends on how long your arms are :)

[Chin_Lee]

i like 30. I used to think that 24 was the max i would ever go but since I got my 30 deep, its been OK. Tough at time but not impossible. I suggest getting these surgical forceps:
http://www.excelinnovative.com/servlet/the-506/Rochester-Pean-Forceps--dsh-/Detail
http://www.excelinnovative.com/catalog/28-260.jpg

they come in different lengths and are very effective for reaching down to get things from under rocks etc. They are also very strong and durable.

[surgeonfish]

Chin Lee
If you stand on a stool do you still need to use surgical instruments to reach the bottom?

[Chin_Lee]

no but my upper torso would have to be above the tank and my armpits are pretty close to getting wet.

[SeaHorse_Fanatic]

I have a 29" tank. It's a bit too deep for easy working in the tank but its great for viewing.

[Manny]

Thank you for the link. That is an awsome tank.