reef tank setup question

[tech1]

Howdy all. I've had a fish only for 6 years, but this summer I plan to add corals. I have an 85 gall. hex, so it is pretty deep. What would you suggest the best lighting system? Does anyone use a calcium reactor, and the better brand? thanks for any help

[charlie]

Exactly what are dimensions of the hex, that will help us with the lighting question.
I have never used a Ca. reactor, but I do hear that Koralline is a good one. What type of corals are you going to have?

[showfish]

I would decide first what type of animals you are looking to keep, thus this will determine the lighting requirements needed to keep them happy. Do you wish to keep LPS corals or SPS? Different animals require different lighting needs. Just my thoughts.

[returnofsid]

With a hex, you're talking a lot of water that the lighting has to punch through. Depending on what corals you're wanting to keep, you'll probably have to go with 400 watt halides.

[Firefish]

I started out with a 44 gal hex 15 years ago. I had one 400 watt halide pendant hanging over head which did a nice job. That was the only light I had since there wasn't room for anything else. I ended up with a 72 bow not long after which gave me enough room to add a couple VHO lights.

There are some nice halide / PC hybrids & pendants being sold now so I would think that would be the way to go... 400 watt 12 or 14k pendant with PC for dusk & dawn...