Lighting For Lps

[rdp50734]

Is there a guideline for the amount of light that is required? I will be keeping softies and possibly LPS further down the line. How much light is required to keep them? The tank depth is 2 foot, I know T8s are not good enough and I have seen some metal halides. 150W, 2 x 150W, 250W and 450W but how much is enough and how much is too much?

 

[-Nemo-]

Your tank is really tall... so I wouldn't worry too much about too much light. 2 150w (one on either side of the brace) would be OK, or you could do some T5 Bulbs. If you're going to go the T5 Route make sure the bulbs have individual reflectors (as it increases light output by 300% ), and with them 4-6 bulbs should be OK for supporting LPS.

 

[rdp50734]

Well the money I would spend converting to T5s I may as well go for the MH's.

Its a corner tank so I have a 2 foot bar at the back and a 3 foot at the front. I was a bit concerned about having a MH unit at the front and not getting enough light at the back where most of the corals will be.

 

[-Nemo-]

Hmmm yes that's the only problem with Metal halides, would you be able to fit two on there to fix your problem?

T5s aren't all expensive... and there are many advantages to them over metal halides. So don't rule them out just yet

What are the dimensions for the light you would need?

 

[rdp50734]

Max 24" x 9" and 36" x 12" I want to keep a lid on the tank and I know I will have to mod the flaps.

 

[pmb_67]

Max 24" x 9" and 36" x 12" I want to keep a lid on the tank and I know I will have to mod the flaps.

If you're looking for T5's to fit under a tank lid then I can recommend the Deltec Razor twin units - they come in different lengths so you should be able to find one to fit. I'm replacing my came-with-tropical-tank T8's with a pair of them and am sooooo happy with the increased light output...

Paul

 

[rdp50734]

I bought this http/cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=320615183751&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT#ht_3754wt_1139 £80