Proper LPS Lighting

Homer J · #1 07/18/2005, 09:15 PM

Can somebody tell me the proper lighting setup for an LPS exclusive tank with these dimensions? The tank is 48"x18"x24". Most threads I've read involve a mix of LPS and SPS or more. I just want LPS.

Right now I am running a Coralife Aqualight compact flourescent (4x65). My tank is FOWLR. I was hoping to just add another one of these same fixtures across the top of the tank to double the output but I worry if it is strong enough to penetrate the bottom adequately. I also do not want to get something that's going to incinerate the coral near the top of the tank. Can I get away with this setup or do I need to go with something stronger? I'd appreciate any thoughts.

thanks,

Bob

Bcollins111900 · #2 07/18/2005, 09:28 PM

I use 220 Watts of PC's on my 55ga (same tank dimension you have) with all LPS, softies and a Derasa clam no problem. Stuff grows like crazy. See my gallery for proof. My Derasa is on the sand bed and has grown considerably since I have gotten it. 4 watts per gallon is good. In your case it would be a little more then 4 watts if you went with 240watts. I use two 10K Bulbs and two Actinics.

Homer J · #3 07/18/2005, 09:30 PM

Thanks for the reply. I appreciate it!

Bob

ALTI · #4 07/18/2005, 10:05 PM

48x18x24 is a 90 gal

i had 4x96 on my 90, then i added halides to it. probably better to get 2 x175 or 2x250 halides. they penetrate the 24" water depth better. you'll get better growth and color with the halides IMO and you can use the pc's you have for actinic suppliment.

Bovetek · #5 07/19/2005, 12:01 AM

I also have a 90. I'm going to upgrade in a bit. Looking into 2x 250 MH and 2x96watt actinic. Just havent decided whether or not to do a retro kit or just buy a fixture

jpfelix · #6 07/19/2005, 12:12 AM

pc's should be fine. either 65w or 96w. i'd go with the 96's.

Runner · #7 07/19/2005, 05:35 AM

I think your PCs will be fine so long as you change them every 6~9 months as recommended. I have a trumpet that grew slowly under 140W of normal flourescent light -- although he appears to like my new MH better. I was flipping through a book at the store this past weekend and quite a few LPS say "moderate" lighting requirements. When I asked the LFS guy what my 175W MH were in my 18" deep tank, he told me "high" by that book's standard.

If you were buying new I'd recommend VHO or MH because they are cheaper in the long-term when you consider bulbs can last 1 year. But since you have the PC, I'd use it. Just put the stuff that needs more light higher up in the tank.

Large Polyp Dave · #8 07/19/2005, 07:21 AM

a 2nd fixture will be fine

LPS can thrive in medium lighting

marillion · #9 07/19/2005, 04:12 PM

My lighting setup on my 40-breeder is the Coralife Aqualight Pro with two 150W 20k halides and that's it. I love it.

Peace,

Chip

BLockamon · #10 07/19/2005, 09:35 PM

I currently use 4x110W VHO (2 URI actinic-white and 2 super actinic). I want to add 2 more super actinics.

Other lights may give higher growth rates, but LPS colors are CRAZY under URI actinics.

lacie143 · #11 07/21/2005, 01:21 AM

i have a 75g 48x18x21 with a 175w 20k hamilton mh and two white two blue vho's. I would probably upgrade to a 250 mh if my elect. bill wasnt allready sky high. heres what my stuff looks like:

Homer J · #12 07/21/2005, 03:50 PM

Very nice pics and thanks for all the replies!