How much light and what type?

[Marty123]

Hi,

I have recently bought a new tank 2nd Hand. It is a 6x2x2.5. The lighting that came is 2 x 150w Aquamedic Ocean Light Pendants and a big Thorn Floodlight (Not yet connected as I cant find a place for the huge ballast!).

The setup does not contain any actinics. I have a twin t5 t-bar over the sump, which I am considering moving up, but as you can imagine, the hood is a already a bit full!

How much actinic light do I need?

Is the Floodlight overkill?

Help!

[instantsquid]

What do you plan to keep? If it's fish only, any lighting will suffice as long as you're happy with the look of it. For corals like mushrooms, some softies, etc. your 150w will be enough.
Is the floodlight also a metal halide bulb?

- Ian

[Marty123]

The floodlight is a Metal Halide.

[instantsquid]

Way to go with the extra information :confused:

[Marty123]

Sorry about the lack of info. I am keeping Soft and LPS corals. I am not reallly planning to go with SPS. I know the fish will be fine with pretty much anything.

I had the 150W on last night and the corals opened up beuatifully.

I am still trying to work out where to put the ballast for the Floodlight. Any ideas how hot they get? If i put it ontop of the hood, there will be approx 1.5" cleance between the ballast and the ceiling. Is this enough, or am i going to burn the ceiling?

As for Actinics, I assume these are a must?