Lighting

[mcvancleave]

I got the 55gal running regular bulbs right this sec. What is the wattage that i need for corals (lets say that will cover most). I am looking at vho lighting or looking for some recomendations.



Thanks
Michael

[mogurnda]

I'd say 4X110 watt VHO or 4X96 watt compact fluorescent will allow you to keep most things. If you're thinking about clams or acropora, I'd suggest going to metal halide.

[mcvancleave]

Thanks for the input on that been looking around and it seems the kits are not 2 bad in price for vho a little up there for the others. Looks like i got a build project coming up to support the lighting needs.

Thanks Michael

[BrianH]

With that set up you'll be able to keep all but the most light demanding critters. I currently am running 4 x 96 watt pc over a 50gal. and have been successful with all lps & softies, montipora digita, 2 acroporas seem to be doing well and a squamosa and maxima are also doing well. One thing I've learned is that current seems to be as important as the lighting with sps corals.

Brian

[ejmeier]

For PC lighting I would try ahsupply.com they have best prices I have seen so far.

Also, you could go with Metal Haildes:D which I love. I got a complete 400w setup going for under $200. The prices are actually very reasonable, for this you can try hellolights.com and go with maybe 2 x 175w.

If you are a DIY you can save a lot of money. If you go with a MH setup and use a magnetic ballast (get very hot) then the price is very nice.:) (This is what I did and the ballast for my 400w MH was only like $50 - it's the bulbs that get you with MHs, as they are usually $60 - $90 a piece.)

Also, if you want latest and greatest, you can do a search for T5 High output fluorescents too. They are a bit spendy though, but always an option.

Just my two cents.