Birds Nest under 144w PC lighting???

Can I place a birds nest coral on the top of my reef under 144w PC lighting and have it survive?

 

It may survive, however the vibrant coloration will probably not be seen as they require intense lighting for optimal growth and health.

 

144 watts over what sized tank?

 

BioCube 29 gallon.

 

Should be fine but, like CR mentions, you might not get the intense coloration that you would under metal halide and/or T5 lighting.

 

no, they need halides and 600+ par

 

rg,

600 ppfd is extremely high, we have successfully grown and propogated seriatopora under NO flour's and we currently have them 10in under a 150w Halide spot, with probably ~350 ppfd with rapid growth and neon pink coloration.

To give you an idea, here is a photo of fijiblue's tank under T5's with very high PAR numbers as measured by an apogee par meter.






CLoob,

Do not expect rapid growth or vibrant colors...but with proper care it will live and grow well. Because PC's are not that intense, frequent water changes and lower nutrient levels will help your cause.

cheers,

e&f

 

Birds Nest were easily my favorite coral of my last tank and one of the most demanding. I'd keep it near the top of the tank. In addition to copious light, it appeared to enjoy nice current as well. Water chemistry had to be ideal for maximum return. Not a beginner coral. I think you may have just enough light to do it if it's near the top and all other things are considered.