do I ditch what I have or can I add more light

[dbestnindy]

I currently have a Coralife 72 Inch Aqualight W/ 4-96W Sq. Pin Base And 5-3/4W Lunar Blue-Moon-Glow LED Lamps. From what I have been reading this isn't enough for corals. One statement about surviving vs thriving hit home. This light came with the tank so it is what I have been using. Should I replace the whole setup or can I just add some MH? I just read a post about lighting but it seems so complicated about putting differnt bulbs to use. I would appreciate any advise. Thanks!

 

[king_neptune]

I wouldn't really think you would need to upgrade until your tank is past 12mo old. Your lights are plenty good for a young tank.
But if you really do want to upgrade, depending on your tank size(that makes a big impact on the purchase) you could need anywhere from 3x250's or 3x400's MH's.
Im just guessing since I don't know your tank dimensions, just that you are using a 72"
I bought a PFO professional light for $500(its a $1500 light) off some local guy who was upgrading his reef tank to an outdoor greenhouse, so he needed natural sunlight. Keep your eyes open on CL or other local hobbiests who want to pawn off thier lights.

 

[dbestnindy]

Thanks for the reply. It's not that I want to upgrade($$$$$) but do I need to. What is a PFO light, that term is new to me. I have seen some deals but am never sure on what to get. I will keep my eye open on the MH's. Would you add those to my existing ones or just run those? Thanks, again!

 

[culp]

with Metal Halides 150 watts or 175 watts bulbs will work fine if your tank is less than 24 inches tall.

 

[naclh2o nut]

There are corals that will need more light. You could possibly add to your existing set up if you have room. If not then you are looking at all new. I would think you could find a narrow M/H fixture. If you keep what you have and add then you should be good with either 150w or 250w.
Good luck, by the way the difference in the color and light in tank with M/H is WOW!!!

 

[dbestnindy]

My tank is 20 deep x 72 long. Any suggestions on a narrow M/H fixture? I am watching on some on an auction but I know so little about M/H's that I don't even know if you need extras for them to work.

 

[king_neptune]

Originally Posted by Culp
http:///forum/post/2973874
with Metal Halides 150 watts or 175 watts bulbs will work fine if your tank is less than 24 inches tall.

but at that power range your going to be keeping the stock near the top to take advantage fully. also water clarity makes a difference as well. which Is why I would say if your going MH...do 250's on a standard 72" long tank. 400's if you start going deeper especially in the 180-260 gal tanks.

 

[king_neptune]

Originally Posted by DBESTNINDY
http:///forum/post/2973884
My tank is 20 deep x 72 long. Any suggestions on a narrow M/H fixture? I am watching on some on an auction but I know so little about M/H's that I don't even know if you need extras for them to work.
don't pay over $500 for a 72" used fixture. keep your eyes open. Craigs list is also a good place. Like I was sayin earlier....you aren't needing one intimidately, so sit and wait till one comes to you, dont snatch up the first thing you see.
oh and culp is right if your tank is only 20deep...a trio of 175's should be fine.

 

[wifishman1]

Originally Posted by DBESTNINDY
http:///forum/post/2973884
My tank is 20 deep x 72 long. Any suggestions on a narrow M/H fixture? I am watching on some on an auction but I know so little about M/H's that I don't even know if you need extras for them to work.

go with the sunpod hqi. they come in 150w/250w and are "kinda" cheap. but they are not very wide. you could maybe do both fixtures on that tank.
matt

 

[dbestnindy]

Thanks for the advise. I have been keeping my eye on C's list. So far, no luck but I am sure something will come along.