Converting octopus tank to reef

[simple]

I have an aquarium that is a little over 100 gallons.
It measures 48"L x18"W x 28"H. I had used it as an aquarium for my octopus McLovin, but unfortunately he recently passed so i have been thinking about converting it to reef.

What i already have:
-100 pounds of love rock
-two Koralia 1's
-Sump, but plan to get something bigger
-ASM skimmer (in need of pump)
-Iwaki Mag Drive pump

What i need to get:
-more powerheads, thinking a pair of Koralia 3s or 2s
-Lighting: This is the part i am most concerned about
Considering the following:
-1x250W HQI, 2x96W CF, and 4xBluemoon LED or
-Two 1x250W HQI, 2x65W CF, and 2xBluemoon LED
Which is better?
-Pump for skimmer: probably a Sedra 3500 (i think thats what it was called)

Here's a picture of the tank as it is now.

For some reason the picture isnt coming up, heres a link: http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2144/235 ... 5e.jpg?v=0

 

[Scoopy]

First thing I can think of is flow. I have 3 of the Koralia 4's in my 75 gallon and have great flow everywhere in the tank. Secondly, with that height, you will definitely need 250w bulbs, which I see you have on your list, but for a 48" tank, you really need to have 2. Pretty much goes one per 2ft of tank. What 'G' skimmer is it?

Good luck
Sam

 

[simple]

It is a g-2, which i think should be enough for my tank, also if i were to get the two 250 watt metal halides, would that allow me to have SPS corals such as acropora?
Thanks

 

[Scoopy]

The G2 would be great. Im runnin the mini-g on my 75 and I wish I would have opted for the G1. Just a bit more. Im getting ready to put together a 125 I just got and Im going way overkill on the skimmer. I really dont think you can overskim a tank.

As for the lights, you can grow any kind of sps you want. 250s will grow absolutely anything. Not at the bottom of a tank that deep mind you, but thats great cause yer shrooms can sit down there happily. Im far from expert, but Im pretty sure what I have said so far is sound advice. If anyone has anything else to add it would be great.

Sam

 

[cindre2000]

Are you going to have a canopy? Since I would personally go with 250w SE and VHO or T5HO rather than PC.

 

[Nemo2007]

Scoopy's advice sounds on point to me. Concerning circulation, Koralia 4's are most appropriate for that size tank. If you have the extra cash, consider the ecotech marine vortech pumps or Tunze.

 

[simple]

would it be too much to get a 400 watt light? i can get it for cheaper than a 250, so i was just wondering..

 

[Scoopy]

not on a tank that is 28 " high. I would say anything under 24" 400s would be overkill.

Sam

 

[simple]

ok thanks, i think ill stick to your advice on the 250's though since i have my quite a few softies that im going to be transferring into here. Anyone have metal halides for cheap? haha

 

[Scoopy]

I wish.. I need 3x250s for my 125 im workin on.

Sam