Differences between LPS and SPS

I would disagree with 6 bulbs ='ing metal halide. You would then have to specify what wattage of metal halide you are speaking of considering I believe the general rule of thumb is that low wattage metal halides (150,175) have less penetration than t-5 bulbs at depth (over 18 inches) I could be mistaken. Again though this isnt really relevant to the OP's questioniong.

 

im just generalizing it, usually when people group the three different types of fixture together to grow sps they have halides led
s then a 6 bulb t5 fixture. because anything less than 6 bulbs cant grow sps.

 

Now that's just not true! not all SPS are high light req! And I betchya a quality 4 bulb set up will grow a decent amount with proper placement!

 

Arguably a 4 bulb single reflector with high par bulbs of a correct spectrum will be more potent than a 6 bulb single reflector.

 

I'm not quite sure what you are talking about here. For one, you have to look at PAR when talking about growing corals, not the number of bulbs or type of reflectors you have. A shallow tank (such as breeders) will obviously give you more options for lighting then a deeper tank. And yes, a fixture with less then 6 bulbs can grow SPS.

+1 Agreed ;D

 

well its just impossible to categorize this, there are so many factos including, reflector type, bulb type, fixture, and tank depth. sure in many cases a 4 bulb setup can work. and in some cases even a 6 bulb cant work. it all depends on these factors.

 

then why continually state something as fact, that just isn't a fact? there are very few things that work in this hobby as a rule on a tank to tank basis! Especially when it comes to lighting!

 

Why state something you know is untrue?

 

So even in my 20" deep tank there's not a lot I can grow? I'm cool with that for now until later... I just wanted to know what my options were.

 

If I were you, I would send a PM to either Coralline, 2in10, Vinny, or Mr. Bill (there are many more of course, not trying to offend anybody ;D). I always go to them when I have questions about stuff lol. They are my lifeline so to say. Of course there have been many good replies in this thread as well.