Is 150 watt MH's enough.

[xlayedoutx]

I've got a 75g tank and was thinking about maybe getting into SPS. Now I have (2) 150 MH's and all the sites that I've gone to say that this is enough wattage for sps, but I see you guys talking about 250 watt and up but you all have bigger tanks. Has anybody tried keeping SPS with 150 watt MH's in a 20" tall tank and what were the results. I'm thinking about just buying one frag and seeing what happens after a few months. My water quality is exactly where it needs to be and as long as I can keep it there I'm hoping that will make up for the lack of lighting if there is one.


Also my other question is I'm looking into getting one of the new Solaris units, although this wouldn't be for awhile. At least not untill they make replacement LEDs on the unit that can be changed at home instead of sending the whole unit back. Anyways what do you think of this lighting in reguards to SPS?

 

[xlayedoutx]

BUMP

 

[NuclearReefs]

I could see it under 150's that were HQI double ended's with some other supplementals. some of the acros are very high in the water column and will do good in the middle to upper part of a 75 . I wouldnt try keeping expensive clams near the bottom though unless you plan on running carbon and possible a UV sterilizer to polish your water enough so they get enough light

 

[trottman]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=7985003#post7985003 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by NuclearReefs
I wouldnt try keeping expensive clams near the bottom though unless you plan on running carbon and possible a UV sterilizer to polish your water enough so they get enough light

so your saying that a $30 blue maxima does not need as much light as a $170 blue maxima?

 

[NuclearReefs]

No,, im saying Id be more willing to try out a 30$ max as opposed to a 170$ blue max til i KNEW for sure it would be sufficent lighting..... That better?

 

[A.G]

I have 2x150w and I keep maxima clam on the sand of my 80g ( 22" tall) and some sps near the bottom with good growth and color .its very important to have a good reflector and to keep your water clear.HTH

A.G

 

[xlayedoutx]

Thanks for the replies guys. I planed on keeping the SPS from the middle up so hopefully I have what it takes. My water is crystal clear and I do have the UV so I guess once I get one I'll keep my fingers crossed and hope for the best.