FOWLR lighting...

[Mugg1977]

I am in the planning stages of a 150 FOWLR (4' tank). I am looking at T5-HO for the lighting (don't want VHO because of heat and bulb life). I like the "blue" look so I was planning on using the UV 14K bulbs with Icecap ballasts. My question is regarding watts/gallon. I was thinking of the 2x54W kit for about .75W/G. Does this sound reasonable for a FOWLR? This would also give me room to expand later, if necessary.

 

[ronj]

that is fine as long as you don't add any sps corals.. it may be a little dim though.. i am guessing that the tank is pretty deep if it is a 150g and only 4ft.. i would probably double those lights

 

[Mugg1977]

Yeah, this will stay fish only. I now have to travel some for work and the wife needs to be able to take care of ti fairly easily when I am gone.

The tank is going to be 4'x3'x2'(deep).

 

[ronj]

oh, that's not bad... it still may be a bit dim...what kind of fish are you going to keep??.. i am about to set up a new 90g sps tank.. i'll let you know when it is up.. you can come take a look at it

 

[Mugg1977]

I am still debating the stock list, but likely an imperator angel, a naso tang (not sure on the color yet), a snowflake, and maybe something else.

Yeah, let me know when you get it runnung! Unfortunately, we moved to Birmingham last may (need to update sig), but I can guarantee that I will be in town most every weekend in April and May. I can't stay away from the cobia! I will have to stop by when I am in town.

I think the main problem will be seeing light strips with only 2 bulbs. I will probably go with the 2 at first, then add another pair later as the cost difference is not too much and I can work a deal with the lfs for my old pc's and hqi's!

 

[burning2nd]

single 400watt would be hot... hanging from the ceiling,

but anyway... how about 4x39watt t5's