halides on a 55g

[josh holt]

i am starting up an sps only 55g. tank dimensions are 48L,20h and 13d. i have 2 seio 820 powerheads for circulation and a cpr hang on refugium with protien skimmer.my biggest question is are my 150watt hqi halides enough lighting. the fixture also has 4 21watt t5. any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Stoney Mahony]

Yes they are enough but there will be slow growth. 250's would better suit your situation.

 

[mntl]

It is enough, but I would run a higher par 10k for the MH and use the T-5 to suppliment for color. If you are using a high k (20k etc), low output bulb, you might find that some acros will not do very well in the long run.

jmo

-John-

 

[Milleme]

I started out with a 150 on my 58 and felt like I wasnt getting much growth with my sps so I got a 250 and run both with higher demanding sps on 250 side. Save yourself the trouble of upgrading later and go ahead and get 250s. But if thats not in your budget or whatever 150s plus t-5s should be suitable.