Can I keep shallow tank with MH only?

[jase0723]

Hi folks

I'm planning to set up a shallow tank with mostly clams and SPS's. I would like to use the hanging MH pendulum lights (the ones that look like bells) without any PC's and VHO supplements. Does anyone have suggestions on the success rate of this method of lighting? Has anyone had success with this type of lighting on a long term basis (2 years or longer)? or does all tanks have to be supplemented with PC or VHO.

Thanks
Jase

 

[EvilMel]

I have had great long term success (a few years) with just MH, no PC or VHO.

I think you could keep a shallower tank with MH's but you would definately need to think about protecting the corals as you first add them or as you first add the lights. You can do things like put a few layers of screening on top of the tank and remove a layer every few days, and you can raise the lights up for a while, slowly lowering them down. The big deal about it in my opinion (besides the heat issue) is that you are going to have to go very slow acclimating the corals to that much light. But this is just my opinion, maybe someone else will pipe up about it too.

 

[Witfull]

sound advise.

 

[EvilMel]

Thanks Wit. I am used to getting bashed on a reef central if I express any opinion at all.

 

[wrassehole]

:badgrin: you and your damn opinion again evil, lol just kiddin :doubt:

 

[EvilMel]

Wrassehole, that's one of the funniest names I have ever seen.

 

[soldefender]

Wrassehole ha ha I am a little dim witted that is funny