Question about the right lighting

I am new to saltwater aquariums.. Now I have a 55 Gal tank with wet/dry filter, protien skimmer, and canister filter... I am looking at getting lights for this setup and Since i am just starting i want to get the right lighting. I was wondering what the best lighting would be I want lighting that i can but any type of coral in the tank and not worry about the lighting. I have been looking at the 48" Outer Orbit 2x150W.


Thank for your time and help
Walter

 

Walter,
I can't vouch for the quality, I have never owned that name brand.
But as far as the lighting intensity with the two 150 watt metal halides and actinic supplementation. You should be able to keep just about any coral that you choose. Assuming all of your other water parameters are ok.
Enjoy

Jim

 

Well anyone would surely tell you that MH is definitely the way to go, and lately it sounds like T5-HO is a close second. One thing I have to say about MH since I just finally got mine, I was worried that with the new lighting I would see an algae burst. Mine are 20000K and to me its just awsome. Plus the 20000K really has not affected my algae at all, in the negative way anyways. I still have to clean my glass a couple times a week, but I have not had any new problems. Thats the only thing to really consider (my opinion), other then brand and price, of course.

 

Thanks for the replies.. I am open for any suggestions on light to check out as well. I also have a question I have an acrylic tank any thoughts about melting??? Seems like a stupid question but just thought I would ask.

 

One thing, make sure your tank is wide enough for the fixture...mine wasnt lol

 

I bought just the MH 175 W 15kbulbs. no other lighting and the tank looks great as far as corals I can't go there yet because I have a Panther grouper and a Dogface puffer keeping me from buying any coral.