Can I Have SPS with 4 bulb T5?

I have a pretty big flat surface (10 inches wide by 6 inches deep) that I would like to put branching SPS corals on. I have a 4 bulb T5 Tek fixture that sits about 22 inches from the deepest part of the shelf. I have 2 monti caps that are growing at a pretty good rate that are close to 22 inches from the light. My question is would it be possible to keep branching sps at that depth?

 

That is pushing it IMO. They do have deepwater acros. Those would be perfect for that light and depth.

 

stack some rock to get them close to the light??

 

Wow, I really like the deepwater acros...what about the montipora digitata?

 

my acro is fine with a 4 bulb t5. Get high PAR bulbs

 

Oh, alot depends on the fixture itself though too. Reflector, ballast, bulbs

 

I have a Tek lighting fixture with geissman bulbs

 

You will be fine.

fwiw, the term deepwater acro usually doesn't mean it needs less light. It's a rather unscientific term. I have deepwater acros only a few inches from the surface with the halides right above them with no issues.

 

So, regular acros would be ok at that depth?

 

They may grow, but they will likely lose color. 22" from a 4-bulb T5 fixture is not ideal for SPS. If you could raise them up so that they are much closer it would be better for you (and them). I wouldn't push it much below 16" from the light source, and closer is better.