We definitely need to decide what type of lighting to get to upgrade our 2x96watt pc's over a 90 gal (24" deep. We've been tormenting ourselves by doing searches and reading every conversation that ever went on in history concerning this issue. Please help! We want a good reef mixture in our tank (softies, sps, etc.) We not only want them to live, but to grow and thrive as much as possible. We are yet to see anything grow in our tank other than algae.
First, we don't know whether to go with regular metal halides or hqi's. We like the regulars because they are less expensive. However, which are better? Heat is not a factor, since I think both will heat up the tank and that's another problem we'll have to tackle.
Second, we don't know whether to go with 2x175 watts or 2x250's. We've been told that more is better, but, can there be too much? We've also been told that each have their pros and cons as far as keeping types of corals, where some would get too much light while others flourished.
Third, where should they measure on the kelvin scale? We were considering the 10k's. We like the blue effect. But how do they all measure as far as quality for the corals is concerned?
These new lights will be supplemented by 2x96watt actinic pc's for the blue effect.
This is a long question but we look forward to your input. Thanks in advance.
Mike and Pam
First, we don't know whether to go with regular metal halides or hqi's. We like the regulars because they are less expensive. However, which are better? Heat is not a factor, since I think both will heat up the tank and that's another problem we'll have to tackle.
Second, we don't know whether to go with 2x175 watts or 2x250's. We've been told that more is better, but, can there be too much? We've also been told that each have their pros and cons as far as keeping types of corals, where some would get too much light while others flourished.
Third, where should they measure on the kelvin scale? We were considering the 10k's. We like the blue effect. But how do they all measure as far as quality for the corals is concerned?
These new lights will be supplemented by 2x96watt actinic pc's for the blue effect.
This is a long question but we look forward to your input. Thanks in advance.
Mike and Pam
