Too much light?

[ugotktfo]

I'm looking at a 48" light for my 55. One has two 250w metal halide bulbs and 4 54w t5's and has 716w total. The other has 2 400w metal halide bulbs and 4 54w t5's with 1016w total. Is 1016w too much light for a 55 gallon?

 

[gemmy]

I have 2 x 250 MH with 4x96 watt pc on my 55. It is a bit much, but I can keep any coral I want. I just have to acclimate slowly. Too bad you don't live closer. I'm going to be selling my fixture soon. I'm converting to LED.

 

[flower]

Quote:
Originally Posted by UgotKTFO http:///t/390499/too-much-light#post_3458673
I'm looking at a 48" light for my 55. One has two 250w metal halide bulbs and 4 54w t5's and has 716w total. The other has 2 400w metal halide bulbs and 4 54w t5's with 1016w total. Is 1016w too much light for a 55 gallon?
Yes, 250w or 400w is way overkill...150w or 175w MHs are perfect..a 55g is actually a small tank. I had 2 X 175w on my 48 inch, 55g, 75g and the 90g tank.

 

[acrylic51]

Agree 175's would be a much better fit, but kind of a waste if you plan on a bigger tank down the road.....A 75 or 90 would definitely have 250's......

 

[flower]

Quote:
Originally Posted by acrylic51 http:///t/390499/too-much-light#post_3458886
Agree 175's would be a much better fit, but kind of a waste if you plan on a bigger tank down the road.....A 75 or 90 would definitely have 250's......
I had the 175w on my 75g and the 90g. My anemones and coral were very happy...the clam as well.