Anemone Lighting

[Reefman29]

I want to put a BTA in a 20 gallon, yes I know it is small. Anyway, would a 150 watt metal halide with 2 actinics for another 28 watts be too much? It has mounting legs or a hanging mount. Any other ideas on lighting are gladly appreciated. I just don't want to spend more than about $200. Thanks for any help.

 

[Amphiprion]

No, that would work just fine. I don't see any reason to spring for more in this case, unless you plan on keeping even more demanding organisms (which, in a 20g, there shouldn't be many at all). I'm using a 250w on an 18" 25g cube, but only because of seagrasses.

 

[Reefman29]

Should I hang mine or use the mounting legs?

 

[Amphiprion]

Whatever is comfortable/practical/safe in your situation. I would get the lamp as close as possible without running the risk of splashing (cracked glass) and too much heat. The latter shouldn't be as much of an issue with a 150w, though. I know I can get my 250w about 5" from the surface without a problem, but I also keep my temps around 82 degrees or so. I also personally like to hang my fixtures.

 

[Reefman29]

If I mounted it right to the tank do you think I would need a heater or a chiller? I live in Pa just for reference.

 

[NoBigDeal]

If I mounted it right to the tank do you think I would need a heater or a chiller? I live in Pa just for reference.

As already noted, heat shouldn't really be an issue with only 150 watts.

 

[dcombs44]

If I mounted it right to the tank do you think I would need a heater or a chiller? I live in Pa just for reference.

You just need to observe your tank. Every situation is different. If you can hold temperatures down without a chiller during this time of year, you don't need a chiller.

If you can keep temperatures up in the dead of winter, then you probably don't need a heater.

No way to tell without knowing your your tank reacts during certain times of year.

 

[Reefman29]

Okay, I wasn't sure because I know that metal halides get hot, but heat does rise so I will probably need a heater. Thanks