Lighting in a 55?

[rick505]

I recently bought a 36" Tek T5 unit for my 36 gallon tank (30x15x21) but planning on getting a larger tank approximately 55 gal. The 55 measures about 48x13x20. Would my Light work on a tank wiht those measurements or am I pushing it? What's the largest size tank i'd be able to get with the current light setup I have?

I'd like to keep BTAs, Mushrooms, a Brain, and some other corals that I cant yet decide on.

[Ms. K]

I have a 55 gallon (or at least that's what I was told byt he seller...may actually be a 58?) that is 36" long. You could find one to fit your light. You'll just have to shop around a bit.

[phil519]

If you haven't purchased it yet - you might want to consider a deeper (front to back) tank such as a 75. Or a 55 with 36 length. I have the same 55 and quite frankly it's a pain to aquascape - the only true benefit I see is that the 55 is the minimum size an aga will be Reef Ready. Also with space a premium in the city - I can see how a 55 would appeal versus a larger tank.

As for lighting - the opinions on that subject can go on and on - I'd suggest posting this same question to the lighting forum for additional insight.

I'm not familiar with the tek t5 lights - is that 2 bulbs at 39W?

[Ruu]

Originally posted by phil519
Or a 55 with 36 length. I have the same 55 and quite frankly it's a pain to aquascape - the only true benefit I see is that the 55 is the minimum size an aga will be Reef Ready. Also with space a premium in the city - I can see how a 55 would appeal versus a larger tank.

Actually, the smallest tank that AGA make that is RR is the 54 corner. Its a joy to aquascape, and a pain to light and fit a sump under.

Dave

[rick505]

I havn't yet purchased a tank but would like to buy the largest possible tank that my current lighting setup would be able to handle. The Tek T5 fixture is 4x36 watt. I'd like a tank with more depth to aquascape front to back, but if my lights wont be able to handle it then I wont go that route.

Since I bought the lights last and I now have the opportunity to put together a larger aquarium i'd like to go with the biggest possible tank with my lighting. Any ideas?

[Ruu]

All-glass make a 65 Gallon with dimensions 36x18x24. It can come reef ready too - I nearly bought one, but got a corner tank instead (which won't fit your light).

Dave