Any lighting suggestions for new tank???

[DeAngelove]

DeAngelove - I had a 46 some time ago , they are a pain to light because of the center brace (whatever some people tell you do not cut it out - you'll have your tank on the floor eventually). In that particular tank T5s or VHOs would work ok but the problem I found with VHOs is with the endcap they are hard to fit into a canopy. t5s are a great alternative and if you have the oceanic canopy you can probably find a way to rig them up to hang inside it.

MHs are the most bang for the buck and cheaper in the long run but expensive initially. If you want clams I would highly reccomend MHs - most species won't thrive under anything less.

Hi Mike -
Yeah, that's what I was thinking about doing, but thankfully someone at one of the LFS advised me against it! The tank came as a combo with the stand and the hood, the hood (is by All-Glass Aquarium) though is probably not going to work, at least that is what I suspect. So I will be most likely looking at getting another hood or glass plate for the cover, depending on the lighting I end up choosing. Any thoughts on PC's for soft coral and polyps? Please advise... and thanks again for your help!

~Denise

[manny]

You can get a canopy built and then add whatever you like into that. Using retrofit kits from somewhere like www.hellolights.com is probly gonna be one of the most least expensive and versatile things you can do. You could start off with a pc, vho, or t5 retrofit kit, then later on move on to somethin like MHs and have the other bulbs supplement. Just depends which look you like better, the pendent or canopy i guess.

[DeAngelove]

I think a single pendent suspended from the ceiling and open top tank would look nice. You'd save money on the canapy that way so can justify the extra expense of the nice looking MH pendent.

Hi Joshua -
That was what the LFS person this past weekend said, because it would be more than enough light for my size tank. The only problem is that black brace in the middle of the tank (as it is a bowfront) would cover some of the light, and I don't think it would look right to place it off center (I like everything to have somewhat of a balanced look). I am leaning toward purchasing two MH pendants myself, probably some slightly used ones (150/175W or 250W) to do the job. At least two of the LFS that I patronize take in used equipment and sale them for their customers, I think I am going to give them a call and let them know what kind of items I need. Also... is it ok to have an uncovered aquarium? I've heard certain kinds of creatures can jump (or climb for that matter) out of the tank. PLMK... and thanks again for your help!!!

~Denise