new reef tank

Hi, I'm just starting a saltwater tank. I have a 55 gallon tank and want to have hard and soft coral. I'm trying to find out what kind of lights I will need. I've been researching it and there is so much out there about it. Can anyone please tell me exactly what I need and where to start? Any help would be greatly appreciated!!

 

you have come to the right place. welcome 2 3reef im sure all of you questions can be answered here. If i were you i would look into a nice T5 fixture.

 

i also have a 55g tak with a mix of corals click the link im my sig and check it out if you want.

 

You will want at least 6 watts per gallon. That means about 300 watts of lighting. Im guessing because its a 55 its a long rectangular tank so I agree you should look at T5's. If your budget will allow it I would try to find a lighting setup that uses T5's and a couple of PC lights so you can add in some acnictic lighting. Good luck with your new reef.

 

hello welcome to 3reef a t5 fixture works great

 

welcome to 3 reef, nash

T5 is the future , OK its the present also

MH is still regarded as the best of the best, but while you are a beginner and not messing about with the harder to keep species (Hopefully) the T5s will be ideal

Steve

 

Dasco, what brand of fixture do you have?

 

Welcome to the reef!