New SPS tank

[turbosek]

I have a 200 gal system. DT is 42" x 30" x 30", with a 6" DSB. I have 3 400W MH...2 are 14K and the middle light is 20K. I have them running approximately 6 hours each...each turning off 2 hours after the previous one, and shutting off the same way. Kind of like the sun is rising and setting across the tank.

I want to have an SPS tank. I currently have my CUC in, but nothing else. Tank cycled this past May.

What types of SPS corals would be suggested to add first? My rock work has areas at varying heights to allow for corals demanding different levels of light. I have one area of rock that is only 4 inches below the surface.

What kind of SPS coral would you put at the very top...right near the light?

Finally, are there any advantages to keeping only SPS...and not mixing other types?

Thanks!

 

[divewsharks]

If you never kept any SPS before, you might want to start with some Monti's (digitata's and encrusting), pocillipora & seriatopa (aka birdsnest).
There are many options to go right up near the top. My Pink Lemonade, loves being up high as an example.
Advantages: limiting complexity, different types of corals have different things and pests to watch out for. There are some who don't like to put leathers in their SPS tanks, do to possible release of toxins by the leathers affecting the SPS.
Otherwise mix away, just be cognizant that many (not all) softies and LPS prefer lower light than many SPS. My tank is dominated by SPS, but i have acans, p/z's, clams and a scoly in there as well, plus a bright green nepthea.

 

[Basketstar]

I would recommend stocking the tank with aquacultured sps frags first. They seem to be more forgiving when it comes to the ups and downs of a virgin tank.