Metal Halide - How many bulbs over 36"?

[slicegolfer]

I am planning out an SPS tank that will measure 36x18x24. For this size aquarium, how many bulbs are recommended? My original selection was to use the 250w 20k Radium SE bulb in a Lumenarc III reflector with an IceCap ballast.

 

[SpencerG]

It depends on the coverage you want. I have a single 250w over my 40 breeder, same footprint as your tank, just a lot shorter. The corals away from the middle tend to grow toward the center and not as well on the side away from the light. Assuming you want more even growth, you may want to do two 175w bulbs, or two 250w bulbs if you really want a lot of light and heat going on. Good luck!

 

[Toddrtrex]

I have 2*250 (( Radiums )) over my 58, granted this is just a standard full Hamilton fixture. This way I don't have any dark areas in the corners.

 

[fatboyt123]

I say your combo with the ice cap and everything else will be good.

I have had the same setup sure there is a little bit of darkness in the corners not that much but its not like you are going to have corals pack into them.Just keep all the corals mostly in the middle or atleast the more demanding ones.It will save you money only going with one 250 rather then 2 175

 

[nyvp]

get a one lumenex,lumenarc or bright and your GTG dont waste the the extra $$ on two