New 90 gallon setup - lighting

zoiescout · #1 04/03/2007, 05:31 AM

I was looking at getting the Nova Extreme T-5 Fixtures w/Lunar Lights. I was looking at getting the 48" 4-54 watts. What type of corals could I keep with this lighting? What about clams? Would I have to get 8-54 watts instead?

serpentman · #2 04/03/2007, 06:35 AM

I would say you could keep most softies and possibly some SPS. I would go with the 8x54W personally. It will give you more options down the road.

bunkerboy · #3 04/03/2007, 06:39 AM

I have been looking into the same lights for a 90 i want to set up. Fosters and Smith have them for $200 i think... i want to do a FOWLR at first, and then start with soft corals... remember, you can always upgrade later to bigger and better. Bunker

mapleredta · #4 04/03/2007, 06:40 AM

But why spend more money down the road? If you can afford it get the best right now.

bunkerboy · #5 04/03/2007, 07:22 AM

Lets face it, if we could afford the best, why settle for a 90, why not a 180 or a 220, or even a 800 gallon beast.... do whats in your comfort zone money wise... i think with 200 watts, you can do quite a bit of soft coral... and if you are like me, you will want more tanks later... there is always room for upgrade, always new products coming out, and always someone interested in used equipment. Good luck with your choices. Bunker

mistergerardob · #6 04/03/2007, 07:32 AM

If you can afford it, the 8 bulbs is a better option.

zoiescout · #7 04/03/2007, 09:48 AM

Thanks for the replies. I would love to go bigger and better but money is always an issue in this hobby but I still love it.

Osmotic Shock · #8 04/03/2007, 11:46 AM

I recently bought the same light(4 x 54) from Foster and Smith. It is a good value. The only two issues are 1) the moonlights are white and seem too bright and 2) the "white" bulbs it came with seem too white( I don't remember the spectrum off hand) and I will probably replace one of them.