New Tank

[lvpd186]

Tom,
I hope your able to turn things around. I can only imagine the frustration you are feeling. As for the lighting debate I would actually recommend going with the 250s. To use my tank as an example: I have (2) 175 10,000 XM lights supplemented by (2) VHO lights. I have never had a problem with "light shock" on a coral and I've had excellent growth (growth for sps, softy and lps corals). You could, since you already have the 400s change your bulb configuration. Maybe use some 14,000s mixed in with some 10,000s or even a 20,000k. Or you could also change your main lights over to 250s and then keep a single 400 with a 20,000k bulb. I missed Adams talk on lighting but I'm not too sure I understand the connection between light and current and how it would be ok to use 1000w MHs as long as you have enough flow. From keeping up with Tom's thread here I would say he has a ton of flow right now so why would 400w lights bleach his corals (the two vortexs alone are 6,000gph after all)? If I was you Tom I would try and force myself to take care of each problem one at a time. You said you have some flatworms; take care of them first. When you got that problem solved take on the next one. I'm sure over time you'll get it set the way you want it. (hows that for a rambling post )