Lighting question for MH on a 180 reef

[Pike614]

I am setting up a 180 reef and would like to know if anyone has any recommendations on the orientation of the MH reflectors over the tank. Either Perpendicular to the top, or parallel to the top. I have SE Bulbs in Spider reflectors, the tank is 24" wide, so I have plenty of room to put them either way. Any ideas are appreciated!
thanks!

 

[Pike614]

anyone?

 

[DrBDC]

I've always run mine parallel to the length of the tank.

 

[DrBDC]

Here is a great article which will show you the intensity of the bulbs to support that orientation as well as some great stats on different reflectors.

http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/mar2003/feature.htm

 

[Pike614]

THANKS!