Hi guys! I'm finally getting a large tank...YAY! I'm upgrading from a 135g to a 180g...probably getting the new tank in 4-6 weeks:bounce1: I'm sure that I will have some questions in the future as I transition but for now my concern is lighting:worried:
I currently have the ATI 60" 6x80 fixture over my 135g. Will this work for the 180? I'm concerned more on the width and depth than on the length. The fixture isn't very old, maybe 2 years. {I'm trying to keep my expense low for now so I don't want to have to buy a different light(s).}
If it comes down to the ATI not being good enough, what suggestions do you have for another lighting system? {I'm not a fan of LED's, sorry, but if I need to supplement, LED's may be an option?} The tank will be in the family room located right next to the TV. My 135 has the ATI mounted in the canopy so we haven't had a problem with the light interfering with TV viewing. However, with the new 180 and no canopy, I'm concerned (have to keep the hubby happy).
I like MH's but the heat, expense and probable light bleed seems to rule that out as an option? :hmm6: I'm just wondering if I could use maybe a LED pendent (like the Kessel) with a gooseneck if I need to supplement? Maybe 'spotlight' a group of corals with it on one end? I mainly keep z/p's with some LPS and BTA's. I "had" SPS's until RTN and STN took all but 3 out. :angryfire: I'd like to have SPS's again in 6-12 months however.
Looks like most of you use LED's and/or MH's. If some of you are using T5's, what do you have? Any problems keeping a mixed reef? Thanks for giving this 'ole reefer lady some help guys!!
I currently have the ATI 60" 6x80 fixture over my 135g. Will this work for the 180? I'm concerned more on the width and depth than on the length. The fixture isn't very old, maybe 2 years. {I'm trying to keep my expense low for now so I don't want to have to buy a different light(s).}
If it comes down to the ATI not being good enough, what suggestions do you have for another lighting system? {I'm not a fan of LED's, sorry, but if I need to supplement, LED's may be an option?} The tank will be in the family room located right next to the TV. My 135 has the ATI mounted in the canopy so we haven't had a problem with the light interfering with TV viewing. However, with the new 180 and no canopy, I'm concerned (have to keep the hubby happy).
I like MH's but the heat, expense and probable light bleed seems to rule that out as an option? :hmm6: I'm just wondering if I could use maybe a LED pendent (like the Kessel) with a gooseneck if I need to supplement? Maybe 'spotlight' a group of corals with it on one end? I mainly keep z/p's with some LPS and BTA's. I "had" SPS's until RTN and STN took all but 3 out. :angryfire: I'd like to have SPS's again in 6-12 months however.
Looks like most of you use LED's and/or MH's. If some of you are using T5's, what do you have? Any problems keeping a mixed reef? Thanks for giving this 'ole reefer lady some help guys!!
