QUICK lighting question

[jonovan02]

I just wanna run this by everyone before I commit myself (and my wallet) to a retro kit:

Option 1: 2-175w metal halide retrofit

or

Option 2: 2-250W mh retro???

I have an 80 gallon. 48Lx18Wx22H. Planning to keep Tridacna clam(s), fish, inverts, corals (undecided to what kind but the clams are for sure). Thanks for the input.

 

[ChaoticReefer]

I would go with option two (2-250w). But don't be surprised by increase in water temperature. You will need to add some fans, even with 2-175w. The reason why I would pick option two it is the least of the two that will limit you on what you can keep.

 

[zizmans]

I agree, it would suck to get the 175's then decide later you should of gotten the 250's. Then your looking at even more $

 

[jonovan02]

Thanks guys. I was just worried that it might be too much light. I was also planning to put a couple actinic 110w vho's later on in the future. Don't want to fry my clams.

Thanks for the heads-up. I think I will invest a little more and get the 250's.

Jonovan