Lighting Help

[HORNFISH]

I Have A 46gal Acrylic Bow Reef And Looking At New Lighting. Halide, Vho,ho, Or Power Compact( Which Is What I Own (2x96) Produces Lots Of Heat.) Any Suggestions?? HAVE 1 CLAM AND TONS OF LPS AND LEATHER. LOOKING TO DO ACRO/MONTIPO.

[Samper]

I'm not sure that your current lighting is adequate for the clam. If you want to keep acros you will definately want halides. I've been looking at the 250w 10ks with pc actinic supplementation but that could change to vho. You will have to look around and do a little research. The bulb choices and setups are endless and very much depend on your budget. Search the lighting forum here and you will figure out want you can afford and what you need there.

[Samper]

Oh I forgot Welcome to reefland and since you're so new I dug up a link for you




10k vs. 20k DE Comparison Shots

that will keep you busy for a few.

[HORNFISH]

Thanks For The Links So Far They Are Very Helpfull. With Halides And Acrylic Is There A Heat Prob?

[Samper]

The only heat problems you are gonna see is dependant on where you live, how close your halides are to the surface and what sort of ventilation/cooling system you have hooked up. Fans aimed at the surface or in the light fixture itself or a chiller can all help cope with the heat.

[HORNFISH]

Have No Chiller But Could Easily Rig An Additional Fan For The Surface. Is The Recommended Height 8 Inches From Surface Or More. You Have Already Been A Great Help, Thanks For The Replies.

[Samper]

Your lighting height is dependant on the corals you want to keep 8 inches or more will be ok but then again you will have to decide on what wattage and bulb. Even when you get the lights hung you will have to arrange corals and play with their placement.

[HORNFISH]

I Have A Friend That Has A Brand New 250wt Mh Pendant, Is This A Good Alternative For What I Need, Or Look For More, It's A Darn Good Price.

[Samper]

I personally would go with two of them but that's all up to you and your lighting needs.

[HORNFISH]

Thank You For The Input, I'll See If I Can Snag Two, But Do You Think The One Would Be A Good Start?

[Samper]

One is definately a start and I might add more than I'm running right now.