question for ophiura on lighting

[fallnhorse]

From what i seen on these threads your about as smart as the day is long. I got a question on lighting for you. I want to know should i go with a 250 watt or 175 watt halide 10,000k to have my 55 gallon(18" depth tank) half lit intensely? I only want two feet of it lit intense. I didn't know it 250 is too much for clams or 175 is just right. I will put antics under it to get rid of the yellowish color. what do you think?

 

[phoenixfla]

I think 175 would be plenty. If you plan to upgrade to a larget tank later you may want to go with a 250 and just mount it higher up off the water.
I use 250 10k XM bulbs and I dont think they are yellow at all. I am very happy with them, but they do look better with the actinics on.

 

[ophiura]

LOL, well thanks, I appreciate that

But I will be the first one to admit that I am no lighting pro. IMO, 175W would be OK...but to be honest on things like lighting for clams and SPS, etc, it isn't my strong point in the slightest.

I agree with PhoenixFla's advice on whether you plan on upgrading soon as well.