[ChrisNL]

I am setting up a reef tank in my 55 Gal.
What I have planned to use is Two(2) 36" double light strips (kind from Hardware store, Shop lights) hard wire into the canopy.
With (4)four 36" lights.
- Two(2) Triton 30wt. lights
- Two(2) Blue Moon 30wt lights
I want to stager the lights white, blue, white, blue, and set them on timers to simulate dawn/dusk.

I would have used the 48", but my mistake in building the canopy I didn't leave enough room on the inside. [img]/infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif[/img]

Does this sound ok, or is there something I am over looking.

For Filtration I am planning to use the Emp. 400 w/ bio-wheels and An H.O.T. w/ bio-wheel that I already have on my African cichlids tank.
I also have 4 powerheads and a protien filter venturi style.

Are there any suggestion anyone might have for me?
Thanks for you help. [img]/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif[/img]

How deep would the ocean be without sponges?

[DAN THE MAN]

What type of corals do you plan to keep? That will determen the lighting you will need. Your going to need something stronger than NO bulbs to keep most corals or anemones. But there are some corals you can keep with that lighting. Give a list of what corals or at least what type of corals you plan to keep and we will be better able to advise you.

Dan

OK! I ADMIT IT! I'M A REEFAHOLIC!

[ChrisNL]

Hey Dan,
Just getting started with the reef so I am not totally sure what the names are yet or even total which group they are fall in.
I figured I would start out with some "soft corals" and mostly fish, then when I get a little more experience I could move in to the "sps" & "lps" ones.
I'm sure what I have seen and like probably fall into the hardest category there is took keep. That is usually how I pick things.
I have some books ordered on Corals but they are not here yet I can tell you better what I am after once they get here.
So I guess I need to upgrade my lighting to the VHO or something like that to keep anything other then the soft one and fish?

Thanks for your help.

How deep would the ocean be without sponges?

[DAN THE MAN]

If your looking at softies and LPS, PC's or VHO are the way to go. If your looking at SPS or clames you will need MH or high watt PC's for that. I personaly prefer PC's for softies and LPS; and a MH/VHO combo for SPS or clams.

Dan

OK! I ADMIT IT! I'M A REEFAHOLIC!

[Frank M. Greco]

I would suggest upgrading your lighting to power compact, and skip the VHO. For a bit more money, PC lighting will provide you with a better spectral output and intensity than VHO.

Frank M. Greco
Professional Aquarist
http://www.frankmgreco.com
http://www.franksaquarium.com