Convert a top opening tank to a front opening tank

Another approach involves turning the top into the front (flipping the tank 90 degrees) and attaching a frame for sliding glass doors ie make up a timber sliding door frame (for sliding glass or Perspex doors) , turn the tank on it's side (top becomes the front) ,
remove the mesh lid (bin it) ,
fit the light fittings to the PLYWOOD false ceiling (top under glass ceiling)

ie see this generalized layout :


materials :
* sheet of 3/4" marine plywood offcut , precut by the trade desk at your local hardware shop (for front and new tank CEILING (under glass ceiling)
* soda glass 6.5mm thick cut to size and smoothed on the edges , holes predrilled for finger holes / lock
OR
Perspex 6.5mm thick or acrylic 6.5mm sheet clear (UV STABILISED) with smoothed edges and predrilled holes
* plastic tracks ie
https://www.cowdroy.com.au/product/p02624-plastic-track-set

* mesh for the warm air (top) vents
* cupboard vents like these
https://www.ebay.com.au/i/160985134725?chn=ps&norover=1&mkevt=1&mkrid=705-139619-5960-0&mkcid=2&itemid=160985134725&targetid=469489763018&device=c&mktype=pla&googleloc=9072216&poi=&campaignid=1793098937&mkgroupid=74958853368&rlsatarget=pla-469489763018&abcId=1139226&merchantid=107393709&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI2M7wkODX5AIV1YRwCh0gSwsKEAQYASABEgKx_vD_BwE
for the lower cool zone air vents.
* some 66 x 42mm x 2.4m F7 FJ H3 LOSP Pine Primed to make bottom slip in lip
* some silastic to glue the frame in place so it doesn't fall off.