new lighting

[thowell64]

I was considering changing out my power compacts for some metal halides and was wondering what experiece you may have had when doing the same - good/bad

I have a 65 gallon, 36" tank full of soft corals and a few fish. I thought the halides would be better for my clams and I would like the opportunity to put in some stoney corals given their colorations.

Any brand or set-up type info would be appreciated.

Thanks

 

[Ah64av8tor]

If you are serious about keeping the clams you will need MH.

You will have heat issues with the MH, I have a 65 with VHO and the temp is always at 82.

 

[sandman12]

MH would be best option. but then you will need a chiller which = $$. You should check out greg's tank if your ever in the area. Same tank and he's growing SPS with VHO. What clams do you have?

 

[thowell64]

I already have a Teco chiller, so that is not really a concern. I have three clams currently, all croceas - still looking for the right squamosa and/or maxima to add.

The clams have been under the Power Compacts for a half a year or so and have been growing well with new growth very evident, -- everything else in my tank grows seemingly well as I am always pruning so it does not get overrun. I was looking to the MH as I would like to add some SPS and I believe it would bring out some more color in the curent corals.

It was just a thought and I was wondering if it would be worth spending the money to do so..

 

[sandman12]

As long as you have a chiller and enough funds go for it! MH is a sweet lighting option and the best IMO. I would go with a 250HQI unless there is a center brace on the tank. Then you might want to consider 2-150 HQI's or 2-250's