What are the advantages and disadvantages of pre-drilled overflows in a reef tank? Is pre-drilled worth it?

Question

I am looking to purchase a new tank (for saltwater fish, live rock, and anemones -- no corals) and I dont know if its necessary to buy a "reef-ready" tank with pre-drilled holes and overflows. I've previously used hang-on filters and hang-on refugiums for my FOWLR tanks.

Answer 1

Over flow give you the ability to have your filtration under your tank. Wet/dry or sump filtration is considered the best option for filtration. However, for an anemone you need several conditions to be near perfect for long-term health. You will need t5ho or better lighting (metal halide would be optimal) with fresh bulbs, filtration that can keep up with the waste produced in your tank, a proper feeding schedule, and if at all possible a protien skimmer. Hope that helps!