Switching MH's

[acid_burn]

I will be switching 2 of my 3 175's to 400's. What kind of acclimation do I need to go through...or do I? Current setup is 3 175's over a 120gal mixed reef...I will be replacing my outer 175's with the 400's. I'm gonna keep my SPS to the outsides and softies in the center.

Thanks,
Rich

 

[steve-s]

Definately acclimate the tank to the new light intensity. No need to shorten the light cycle time, that doesn't do anything. Simpley shade the new bulbs with several layers (3-5) of screen door material depending on the height of the bulbs. Over the next few weeks pull off a sheet at a time slowly increasing the intensity and allowing your animals to adapt.

For future coral additions, be sure they are placed on the substrate for the first few days-week and then slowly inch them up until they are in the desired loaction where they can be fixed permanently.

Cheers
Steve

 

[acid_burn]

Thanks, I was told about changing the photo period...then told not to. I knew I would get it answered here.

Thanks,
Rich

 

[steve-s]

Thanks, I was told about changing the photo period...then told not to.

That actually works fine when upgrading to a PC or VHO depending on previous intensity but not MH. If you burn them for an hour or 8 hours the results the same

Cheers
Steve