Darkim
Member
I have a 175 gallon Bowfront tank that I'm going to develop into my first reef attempt. I have had other tanks but have always wanted a reef. My question to start with is in the lighting. The tank is 29.5 inches tall and I plan on having about a 4 inch sand bed. I'm not sure exactly what corals I will end up with, but I would like the setup to handle whatever catches my eye as I go. I have a few friends that have reefs and are helping me but they suggest I ask as many people as I can about their ideas then make my decision as to what to buy. I was looking at a complete hood from Hamilton Tech (3-250 watt Metal Halides, 4-96 watt CP). My wife really liked my friends moon light so I need to add those (after all she is letting me spend the money). I'm looking for suggestions as to what lights to use, a commercial hood, do it yourself, and what to put into it. I know the Hamilton hood fixture is about $1200, but I want it done right the first time so I don't mind spending the money. Of course I don't want to spend all my money on things I don't need either. Any help is appreciated, Thanks