Metal halide ? for a 120 gal

FISHSHROD

FI double SH ROD
Aug 18, 2005
3,147
11
38
71
Pompano Beach,Fl.
Real Name
Mark
Is anyone here using metal halide on their planted tank? I have a bunch of metal halides left over from my reef days and was thinking about going that route . Maybe overkill ? I've got 3 -400 hqi and 2 regular 175 pendants. Was thinking about mounting something 17 inches above my 120 . What would you do if you were me :help:
Thanks,
[\[\ark
 
Before you go with all that heat I would investigate the latest compact fluorescents. I use a hanging full spectrum compact F. on my tank that was marketed for hydroponics. Check out some other sources and improvise, the aquarist consumer market is usually overpriced and often way behind commercial products.
 
I'm guessing the 2x 175W would work out about right for you. I really wanted to try MH on my current project, but after calculating out all the costs the MH was just to pricey unless you go with cheap ballasts and cheap bulbs, which I didnt want to do. But if you already have everything then might as well!
 
It would be great if going for a planted tank.
 
AquariaCentral.com