Too much light ?

[SSGHackett]

I presently have a 46 Gallon BF, measurements are 36x13x18 (18in from top of water to top of SB). I have PC (2x96watts) lighting now with basic soft corals. I am considering getting more light intensive corals and need a MH set up. My questions are 1) Is there such a thing as too much light and 2) what does everyone recommend. Price is not that big of a issue... Lastly I have a 55 gallon (FW) that will eventually be set up for saltwater, so I am leaning towards a 2x250 retrofit kit.....Thanks in advance for any help.

[Poseidon]

I have seen some systems with as many as THREE 250W halides over 3 foot by 2 foot tank.

Is that to much light? No, BUT you must acclimate the Corals to the level over time. Or else they will get "burned" just like we do. There are a a lot of methods for acclimation, 1 being the 4 on 1 off method others raise the bulbs so they are higher above the surface of water, and others use window screen to "shade the coral" all are equally effective, just remember to take it slow.

[AquaticCo]

Yes you can have to much light. A huge misconception by most people. Check out this article by Dana Riddle which helps exsplain why.

http://www.reefs.org/library/talklog...le_090599.html

Doug