NEW TANK

[Rnegret258]

Can any one help me? I just gaot a 200 gallon tank with no lights. I want to eventually put live rock and fish.
Could I use hydroponic lights for this?What is the difference btwn. all these types? how many watts? I just want to make my tank look nicely lighted for all colors of fish and life to stand out and for rocks and anenomes to do well?

VARIOUS LIGHTING PRODUCTS


SuperSun Reflector Systems Full Spectrum Flourescent Lighting
Metal Halide ?
High Pressure Sodium ?

Watts Price Shipping Quantity
500W
800W
1000W

[loganj]

You could use the hydroponic fixtures...you might have to modify the reflectors some if you want them to fit inside a canopy. You'll want to use metal halide. The HPS bulbs aren't available in the color you'll need. The largest size commonly used in aquariums is 400w. If your tank is at least 24" deep, these should work for you. You'll want to find bulbs that are 6500k or higher. 6500 will give you a yellowish light...may have a hint of green. 8800-10,000k will be a blue/white light. 12,000k is similar with a little more blue. 20,000k has a lot more blue. I think you'll find that the correct bulbs cost nearly as much as the fixtures.

[d9hp]

I would go with MH on such a large tank, and also go with the 10,000k bulbs

There is not much price difference between the Kelvin ratings if you shop around..

I would suggest 3X400 watt MH 10,000k and 4X55 watt PC Actinic 03.

This will be sufficient to house anythig you would like in the tank..