Lighting? Is this ok?

[zoboo2]

Ok I have been told if I want my live rock to grow and cover my base rock I will need more than my single strip light that came with the tank. Would the following work for this?
USA orbit PC with 2-96W Sunpaq 2-96W Dual Antinic and 6 Lunar lights??
I have a 125 gallon FOWLR that is just starting to cycle but I want to get my LR looking good. Also would this work for corals in the future or not strong enough?

 

[usinkit]

That light would be fine. You will only be able to keep soft corals like leahters, mushrooms and polyps with the lighting.

 

[deny]

I was told I should add live rock to my FO tank for better natural filtration. Then a friend said I can't add LR without having to be a new light...his cost 600.00. For FOWLR can I just use the same light that came with the tank? Or is this guy nuts???

 

[usinkit]

I think for coraline growth you need 2 watts per gallon of light. You will also want to keep your alkalinity between 8dkh and 10 dkh.

 

[zoboo2]

Is there a way to raise/lower alkalinity? Thanks for the help!

 

[usinkit]

Using buffer. I use Kent superbuffer. You will need a test kit and you also do not want to dose alot at once. When I dose I only add 1/2 TBS to my top off water once in a day.

 

[zoboo2]

Anyone else have an opinion on if this light would be strong enough for my LR and possibly any corals later?

 

[mr_bill]

Originally Posted by zoboo2
Anyone else have an opinion on if this light would be strong enough for my LR and possibly any corals later?
You might want to get the Orbit fixture that has the two metal halides in it instead. It's a good chunk of money more but you won't be sorry way down the line if you decide you want a reef. Those lights will be fine for LR growth and the lower light req. corals like usinkit said.