Light in aquarium

Question
I want to have coral in my saltwater aquarium but I simply do not know how strong the light needs to be in order for me to keep it going. Is there any specific brand you would recommend me? I have 30 gal aquarium.
Kathy

Answer
Hello Kathy.

You are correct. corals love LOTS and LOTS of light.

I am not sure if there is TOO much light.  the thing to think about is that the more the light the more the heat...  the more the heat, the more you will likely need fans and water chillers..

so, depending on what types of corals you want to keep, I can reccomend different lighting options for you.

typically, I reccomend Metal Halide lighting.  for your size tank, something around 70watts or 150watts

If you go with the 150w fixture it will allow you to use a 'bluer' bulb.  You probably wont e happy with 10K.. although things will grow faster, things dont look at 'cool' and or 'POP' under that color bulb

anyways, let me know about yoru corals your wanting and we can go fromthere.


btw, please check out my new forum at www.thelittleocean.com

it has a live chat room and a BLOG to start and keep a journal on your tank, and get comments and feedback from other reef members.

it is relatively new, and sometimes I or no one may be online at the time you are, but please be patient, members log on at differnt times and will probably log on shortly...

hope to see you there.,


bill