Lighting question number 43094234.2

[angrycrab]

Ok I have been bit by the coral bug, I am about to begin building a stand for a new 75g that I am going to buy myself for easter. My question is simple... would a 260W Dual Strip Compact Fluorescent Light Fixture allow me to keep most kinds of corals? How about a 130W?

 

[drew2005]

Not enough light. If you wanna keep all kinds of corals youll need metal halides. 260w will only give you 3.5 watts per gallon. You need at least 5 watts per gallon.

 

[angrycrab]

I am ok with not being able to have all kinds, just most, still think halides?

 

[wax32]

You want 4 or more bulbs of good fluorescent (VHO or PC or T5) if you want "most" corals. 2 bulbs = "some" corals. 2 metal halides (250w) would be "all" corals.

 

[angrycrab]

So if it has 4 bulbs, two 65w 12000k daylight and two 65 actinic, then that would be good?

 

[wax32]

Should be, what is the TOTAL wattage?

 

[rujelus22]

I have the nova extreme t5 light from current usa it has 4 bulbs for 216 watts and I can keep anything

 

[angrycrab]

Originally Posted by wax32
Should be, what is the TOTAL wattage?
260w

 

[wax32]

Should be ok for most corals in a 75, the most light demanding Acropora and Tridacna might be a little out of reach though.

 

[angrycrab]

Thats ok, i can always upgrade if I grow into it more. I am getting so excited to pick up my new tank!