FOWLR Upgrade. Need lighting help please.

[nate_m]

I have a 50 gal corner. Its 22" tall.
I'm considering a 150W HQI Metal Halide Pendant. 10k actinic bulb.
Is the adequate for my setup? First reef purchase will most likely be a bulb anenome. Then perhaps some polyps.
I'm limited to 30" fixtures which really limits the light output available.
The only other real option is a 24" Aqualight Pro at 280 total output. 150W HQI and 130W of compact flourecents. This unit doesn't include a UV filter? Are filters a must for metal halides?
Thanks,
- Nate

 

[mandarin w]

I would say that 22 inches is too deep for a 150 to penatrate. Try to get a 175 or 250, Those should be able to reach the bottom of the tank, That is where the anemone will more than likely be.

 

[nate_m]

Looks like there is a 250W pendant available which would work. Could you comment on the UV filters? Any other lighting needed? Since this pendant has a glass cover can I keep it about 4-6" above the water?
Sorry for all the questions
- Nate

 

[nate_m]

After some further reading it looks like a water temp rise will be a real concern with the metal halides. Are T5's a better answer?
How many watts of 10k - 14k of T5s would i need to get through 20" of water?
Thanks!

 

[nigerbang]

UV filter...you mean a UV sterilizer...The only time I use one is for some reason the water gets green..(Happened Once) or a severe algae bloom...

 

[chilwil84]

i think the uv filter is the type of cover that goes over the bulb loke a glass shield a six pack of ho t5s would allow u to house most anything some acros of high color might not fair as well

 

[bsd230]

You might look at T5 as well. You will not need tons of light if you are not going to get corals. I had just 2 T5s 48" on my 105 that is 28" deep and my LR was doing fine. Your good algae will grow faster with more light but I only upgraded when I started getting corals. Started with a true actinic and aquablue +, this might be a little blue for a 2 bulb setup just depends on your preference. The upside to the T5s over VHOs and Metal Halides are they generate less heat, more lumens per watt, have a true actinic bulb, and last 2 years. Just my 2 cents, either way you go will work for LR.