Lighting

I want to keep SPS and maybe try a clam not really sure about the clam though they seem kinds of ehh boring. How much lighting will I need for a 90gallon tank. I was thinking 6x54w t5 HOs is this correct? If not what do you recommend.

 

you could keep SPS at top with that. if you could go 8, i would go 8.

 

what is the height of the tank?

 

Check out the TEK 8x54W T5 array. Just bought one for my 90g. With UVL, Giesemann or ATI bulbs, there is nothing you can't keep. Here is a link....

http://www.reefgeek.com/lighting/T5_Fluorescent/Sunlight_Supply/Tek_Light_Fixtures/48_inch__8x54W_Tek_Light_T5_High-Output_Fixture_w!_Bulbs_(Black)_by_Sunlight_Supply

 

It is 23'' tall. PharmrJohn that seems a lot more expensive than something like this. Buildyouraquarium - 48'' Aquarium Light T5 HO 8 x 54 Moon Lunar Reef
I whats really the main difference? Could I use those for a 90G tank and have SPS and a clam that will live well.

 

I just went through that site you have linked. Seems like some really good deals. The only thing is, I don't know about the quality of the ballasts, end caps, what kind of bulbs are included etc. Seems like the reflectors are good. But the others? Don't have a clue. If the bulbs included are coralife, then I would immediately be changing them out for UVL, Giesemann or ATI (or some combination thereof). IMO, the brand of bulb is as important (or more important actually) than the fixture. So, it is getting close to a wash. If you buy an 8x54W from these guys and keep the bulbs, you are saving money up front. If you decide to change the bulbs out, then it gets more expensive. Each bulb running from $20 to $25, with shipping added the TEK is only $50 more than the other fixture plus good bulbs. With the TEK, the high quality bulbs are included. The splash shield and legs are not. So.....

BYOA Fixture (keep bulbs): $360
BYOA Fixture (ditch bulbs): $560
TEK Fixture w/good bulbs, legs, splash shield: $600

 

Ok so if I do go with the TEK the bulbs are good and do not need replacing for what 6 months? Would this work for my tank and let sps thrive?

 

T5 bulbs will go up to a year without replacement. That being said, I like to do mine about every 9-10 months, just to know I am staying on top of it.
And yes, the TEK 8 bulb fixture would be a great light for SPS.

 

A well cooled T5 lamp can and should last upwards to 24 months... Most people will change about every 16mo to a year and a half....
Overdriven lamps should be changed about every 12-14 months if they are cooled properly.

If you want to save money look into a Tek retro kit or the new Aquactinics retros..
I personally would go with the Aquactinics, they have thinner SLRs meaning you can add more lamps if needed.

6 lamps would light the 90 just fine.... 8 would rock the tank.
Back to the cost issue.... Remember that with reefs esp SPS the 3 MOST IMPORTANT things you need are LIGHTS, WATER and SKIMMER.... SO, I would recommend NOT cutting corners on any of the components.

If you want cheap look used Tek or TX5 or build a retro... Once you start buying no name lights you will kick yourself in a year or so when you decide to upgrade or if you, heaven forbid, leave the hobby the no namer will be IMPOSSIBLE to resell.

Happy lighting!

 

Okay I think I have deiced I do want to use that light setup that is in the link but should I buy them with out the bulbs and buy bulbs for them or buy the bulbs they come with? Cause with this I could keep anything in my tank That is a plus cause I will not have to upgrade for a long time, unless I go crazy like everyone else on this site and go for a 200-300G thank