How much is too much?

[Anonymous]

I have a lighting question

my new tank is a 55 gal long (48", 20" tall), currently has a pair of strip lights, that i figure will be fine for the basic lighting needs for the tank atleast at the beginning, eventually, id like to start adding some corals to this tank, and i know that their lighting needs are higher, ive read that a basic figure of 5 watts/gal is usually minimum, ive also read taht T5's are fine, but preferably MH is the way to go.

the T5 48" outside diameter (that sit on top) fixtures ive looked at seem to fit the 5-7ish watt/gal formula, but most MH fixtures of the same size seem to blow way past the 7+ watts/gal. my question is how much is too much on a tank of this size? and what would be a respectible amount to fit the majority of coral's lighting needs?

 

[ChrisRD]

Watts per gallon is really a useless guideline IMO. See a more detailed explanation here:
http://www.reefs.org/phpBB2/viewtopic.p ... 04#1149004

Without knowing specifically what you want to keep it's tough to make a recommendation. That said, IMO that size/shape tank is ideal for T-5s. With a good 4 lamp system that has individual reflectors, you should be able to keep a wide range of stuff.

If you're looking at keeping mostly high light animals, consider an IceCap T-5 setup (I would plan on using a fan to actively cool the lamps for best performance and lamp life) or halides. Personally, I really like halides for the shimmer lines.

HTH

 

[cindre2000]

I concur with ChrisRD. Metal halides are best when you can maximize their potential. Your tank, due to its thinness would waste good bit of light. I agree that a four bulb T5 fixture would be best.

 

[Kevin1000]

There are plenty of great reef tanks using nothing other than T-5's and you can purchase t-5 setups for a 55 gallon for not alot of money. Just my 02.

 

[Anonymous]

im most likely going to go with T5's but i like the look of the halides better, does anyone know of a quality 48" fixture that uses halides that isnt gonna break the bank and would be ok to use in a 55long?

 

[cindre2000]

If you don't want to break the bank, go retrofit; otherwize you are pretty much out of options.

 

[Anonymous]

well im looking for some kind of light setup for under 600, i know i can do that no problem with T5's but i know im gonna want to upgrade to MH at some point to get the shimmer lines

 

[cindre2000]

Used fixtures and e-bay are great for lower prices.