Lighting for my new 56g tank

I have a 56 gallon (30" wide x 24" tall x 18" deep) that I would like it to be possible to keep anything, within reason (SPS, LPS, tridacna). Let us say I do not want to be hindered by lighting. I like the look of the MH at my LFS. I will be placing the lights in a canopy and stand setup. I'm a newbie please provide suggestions for lighting.

TIA

 

a 30 wide tank can be a pain to light IME - they dont do many T5 fixtures for that lenght

but as you like MH that does make it easier for you

the area that can be lit by a MH lamp is 24" square I believe, so a single 250 watt lamp dead centre (providing you dont have a central brace as its not a good idea to put lamps directly above them)

with x 2 T5 actinics - one behind and 1 in front of the MH
this gives you the dawn dusk scenario - actinics on 1st and off last

Steve

 

Thanks. Since I have a center brace, do you recommend that I go with two 12" MHs instead?

 

yes with a centre brace - the heat of the halide can cause problems

so 2 x 150 watt MH either side would be a good option IMO

Steve

 

You have the Perfecto 56 gal Column? If so that is a great tank for one large MH pendant... If the center brace is a concern(which is valid) I would cut the brace out and replace it with a clear acrylic or if you can glass one... The acrylic will be easier to pull off. I wouldn't bother with 2 MH, I would rather run T5 than do that.

Good luck!

 

The center brace can be replaced with a piece of acrylic like "the doc" said. Grab that and some weldon #16 and start gluing. I would go with mh btw if I were you.