Lights for a 120 gallon reef

[wolffvet]

I'm in the process of setting up a 120 gallon acrylic reef tank (48"x24"x24") and need recommendations for lighting. I have been thinking about 2 250 watt 14k MH with lumenarcs and 2 VHO actinic (I already have an Icecap 430 ballast). Would the 250 watt MH be sufficient or do I need to step up to 400 watt MH since the tank is 24" tall?

 

[brandan]

250's should be plenty. I would say you could do 150/175 if you aren't going to keep anything SPS. 250's should be plenty for something only 24" deep. Also remember to subtract the sand, if you have a 4" DSB, then the light only has to penetrate 20" of water. swf.com has a killer deal on Reef Star pendants . . . If I switch to Halides, it will be those. Just my 2 cents

 

[wolffvet]

How about dual 14k 175 MHs with dual 55 watt PCs (in one light hood) and 220 watts of VHOs (48" 110 on each side)?
I have the Icecap for the VHOs and I just found a deal on the other light hood. I don't want to skimp but my wife is trying to keep me on a budget!

 

[wolffvet]

Anyone?

 

[scubanoah]

the 175s will be fine if you only want to keep some softies and maybe some lower light stonies. if you want to keep some montis and acros and keep them healthy and growing go with the 250s.

 

[wolffvet]

I just got a great deal on 2 Reefstar 250 watt HQI 14K pendants ($300 plus shipping) so I will have 2 250 watt MH and 2 110 watt VHO actinic

 

[scubanoah]

that will be perfect