Mushroom lighting

[dr_girlfriend]

I'm planning on starting a 20 gallon with 20-30 lbs base rock, and 5-10 lbs live rock. I was thinking of a few gobies and/or clowns and also wanted some easy low light corals. I read mushrooms take low to moderate lighting, so what is that exactly? Would 26 watts be enough? Any suggestions on any other low lighters? TIA

 

[mjvincent]

If you want some corals I would definitely add at the very least a PC light... You can get a dual lamp one from currrent for around 150$.

 

[dr_girlfriend]

ok, but wattage?

 

[mjvincent]

I have around 80-90 watts on my 32 gallon hex (not sure how my daylight NO compact is rated (bought at HD)).

You can get a dual bulbed current for 115 (cheaper for Aquarium advice members I think). It has 130 watts which will allow you to use anything in your tanks. Mushrooms would be placed lowest in your tank...

 

[dr_girlfriend]

well, I'm not looking for a full blown reef tank. Just a few specimens that can thrive on lower lighting requirements. Hopefully around 1-2 wpg.

 

[malkore]

I'd say you'll want at least 2.5wpg for mushrooms. more wattage for anything else.
most full blown reef tanks are over 6wpg.

 

[dr_girlfriend]

Thanks malkore. I guess I'll need around 45-50 watts then. This will probably be in a 20 tall, so I'll place any corals on the top.
i guess the ahsupply 1x55 watt pc bright kit would work. only 42 bucks too!