Trying to decide on lighting.
Options are:
2x250w MH (no actinic supplementation) w/ ARO E-ballast and lumenarc
4x54w T5
2x150w HQI with 4x54w T5
Goal is SPS dominant. Any lighting will require some customization as the tank has atypical dimensions (48" rear wall down to about 36" up front). I'm also limiting myself to craigslist for lighting sources. I've been able to find all 3 options for about $100.
The tank will be in the basement, which is a comfortable 70º regardless of outdoor temps during the summer. I'm constructing an 11x10 fish room that will be vented into the other half of the basement to allow dehimidifer/air conditioner to remove heat/humidity. The room also has a full size window (daylight basement) that could accommodate an air conditioner if needed.
I know the MH options will grown SPS just fine at any depth, but what about the T5? Is 4x54 enough for SPS in the middle of the tank or will I be restricted to the top portion? Due to the dimensions, I don't think I could fit 6 T-5 over this tank, so if 4 doesn't cut it, I'd have to go with MH anyway (not interested in LED).
Options are:
2x250w MH (no actinic supplementation) w/ ARO E-ballast and lumenarc
4x54w T5
2x150w HQI with 4x54w T5
Goal is SPS dominant. Any lighting will require some customization as the tank has atypical dimensions (48" rear wall down to about 36" up front). I'm also limiting myself to craigslist for lighting sources. I've been able to find all 3 options for about $100.
The tank will be in the basement, which is a comfortable 70º regardless of outdoor temps during the summer. I'm constructing an 11x10 fish room that will be vented into the other half of the basement to allow dehimidifer/air conditioner to remove heat/humidity. The room also has a full size window (daylight basement) that could accommodate an air conditioner if needed.
I know the MH options will grown SPS just fine at any depth, but what about the T5? Is 4x54 enough for SPS in the middle of the tank or will I be restricted to the top portion? Due to the dimensions, I don't think I could fit 6 T-5 over this tank, so if 4 doesn't cut it, I'd have to go with MH anyway (not interested in LED).
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