Live-Rock Arrangement

[T4Stock]

I have a 90 gallon, FOWLR tank. My 170 pounds of rock is piled about 90% to the top of the tank and spans the entire length of the tank. There is about 3 inches of space between the bac glass and the back of the rock. I use three powerheads for circulation

I hav noticed that many of you arrange your rock in somehting of an arch. Circulation issues aside, are there any significant disadvantages to my live-rock arrangement?

 

[bezzer]

T4Stock,
I cannot say wether there is a "scientific" benefit to the arranging of LR in an arch-type fashion but I know for myself it's more eye-pleasing to have gaps, coves and arches when I look at my 65g FOWLR.
I also feel that it gives fish more open water to swim around in, which probably helps promote a more friendly environment for all tank inhabitants.
Just my .02, maybe others will have different opinions.
There are many on this board that have beautiful LR arrangements but if you want to be inspired go take a look at this reef tank.

[ August 28, 2001: Message edited by: bezzer ]

 

[Anonymous]

I have not tore aprt my tank yet. After reading an article that showed how using the same techniques in live rock arranging as bonsai arrangements I will have more thought in y next tank. The article showed how to give depth to a field as observed by the eye from different angles. The arch was not favored in any designs but the use of caves and overhangs were used i all examples.

If you are thinking of rearranging try a few bonsai sites for ideas.

 

[BROKER]

I think that when you use more peaks and valleys you get better circulation around the tank. IMO, if you pile up the rock high, from one end to the other, it decreases the water movement towards the middle of the tank (unless you use 4 powerheads). If you only use two powerheads then you have to have more of a circular motion to reach the entire tank. Other than that it all about what is pleasing to your eyes.

[ August 28, 2001: Message edited by: BROKER ]

 

[pathos]

i have a large cave that runs clear through the middle of my LR arrangement. the main return valve in the rear left and an 802 powerhead in the rear right both blow towards the center of the tank, through which in turn flows through the hole in the bottom and back around to the top. it also provides a cave for my CBS, it allows the DSB to work more efficiently, and my fish love to hang out under the shelf.

this is an older picture; my LR has changed as I am trying to implememt more caves and shelves with my aquascaping.

 

[T4Stock]

<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by bezzer:
<STRONG>T4Stock,
I cannot say wether there is a "scientific" benefit to the arranging of LR in an arch-type fashion but I know for myself it's more eye-pleasing to have gaps, coves and arches when I look at my 65g FOWLR.
I also feel that it gives fish more open water to swim around in, which probably helps promote a more friendly environment for all tank inhabitants.
Just my .02, maybe others will have different opinions.
There are many on this board that have beautiful LR arrangements but if you want to be inspired go take a look at this reef tank.

[ August 28, 2001: Message edited by: bezzer ]</STRONG><HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Hmmm.... interesting. Excellent use of interdisciplinary materials. Actually, I went with the cave/overhang approach thinking it the most fish-friendly approach (lots of hiding places, etc.) at the cost of swimming room. I think, in retrospect, that 170 pounds of live rock in a 90 gallon takes up a lot of swimming room, but I was more concerned with natural filtration at the time (this being my first tank).

There is LOTS of depth-of-field in my tank (others might call it "undisciplined"! LOL...)