What LPS Can I Keep?

[happyclam]

I am going to upgrade my lighting for my 135 tank to 2 250w 20k XM MHs. What corals could I keep?

[musty baby]

I think maybe you've got it backwards. First should come "What corals do I/am I going to want to keep?" and the answer to that should be dictating what lighting you're going to get.

[jadeguppy]

With proper placement, just about anything you want to keep.

[discocarp]

Just about anything.

[snorvich]

Should be no restrictions whatsoever.

[happyclam]

So the 2 MH would be enough? Awhile ago I posted and they said I needed 3 MH to get adequate covereage. I also won't be using Lumen Arc reflectors. So I should be able to keep brains, acans, bubble, anchor, ect? Also, not sure if this makes a difference, but my aquascaping will be 2 LR islands, with the 2 MH "spotlighting" the islands.

[discocarp]

Its a 6' tank? You'll still be fine. You might have a couple dim spots on the edges that won't be suitable for stuff, but it'll work out fine imo. The double island aquascape is absolutely perfect for this setup with some room for very high light stuff near the halides.

[happyclam]

Thanks for the reply discocarp, I thought it was cool too, because this way I can even keep SPS, but I save an extra $200-$300 since I don't have to buy a nother ballast, bulb, & reflector. I also think the aquascape will just look neat as well, and it allows for a fair amount of coral growth.

[discocarp]

Sure. You'll also use less power than with 3 bulbs. And if you don't like it or find you need more, you have an obvious upgrade option down the road.

[happyclam]

Thanks for the help! Although I never got around to installing the MH, and I've changed my mind. I'm going to use T5 instead. I will have 12 39w T5 bulbs over the tank. Is that still enough light for LPS?

[discocarp]

Is that 6 bulbs in width across the whole tank? Right? If so you will be absolutely fine.

[happyclam]

There are 2 sets of 6 bulbs, one on each side of the aquarium. Is that what you meant? Will I be able to keep acans in the tank? And how far down?

[discocarp]

Yep, that's what I meant (six 3' bulbs on each half of the tank). You will be able to keep acans at the very bottom of the tank no problem. SPS at the top to middle depending on the specimen.