Lighting for a 65 gal

[cteagan]

So I'm getting back into the hobby. It's been over 6 years since my last tank. I'm planning on a 65 gallon (36" x 18" x 24"). My last tank was a 29 with PC's but I'm pretty sure I'll need something stronger because of the depth. I want to be able to keep anything up to sps, Anemomies, and clams. I'll probably keeps the sps in the top half of the tank and favor the softies & Lps for the bottom half.

I'm leaning towards MH as I know nothing about Leds, but would entertain the idea of them. I'm thinking about 250w MH, would I need one or two or should I consider something different?

Thanks

Chris

 

[olemiss reb]

I run 24" Vertex Illumina 200 models over both of my 65s. These will support any light dependent animal you put in the tank.

 

[JAustin]

You would need 2. I have 2 over my 40 breeder. Two mh is best for coverage.

 

[TimeConsumer]

If you want to entertain using LEDs, 2x Kessil A350s would work for a reasonable price.

 

[cteagan]

I run 24" Vertex Illumina 200 models over both of my 65s. These will support any light dependent animal you put in the tank.

Ouch! $1,500 for lights. I don't need a Lamborghini, a simple corvette would be nice though.

 

[cteagan]

If you want to entertain using LEDs, 2x Kessil A350s would work for a reasonable price.

I'm listening.....Will these give me decent light at the bottom of a 24" tank?

 

[ghellin]

You can DIY LEDs for around $400 that will rival two 250 watt halides with nearly zero heat being transferred to your tank and house.

Here is mine for my 58 (same footprint as your 65)