Supplemental lighting

[dfisch1]

I have a 40breeder tank with 18K and antenic T5 bulbs. I am thinging of adding an articulating arm 150 watt MH to the tank to increase the lighting. I would like your oppenions on if this is to much for a tank that is about ten inches from the water to the substrate. If not what temp light do you think would look nice. I was thinking a 10K bulb. If the watt is to high I can get the same unit in a 70 watt version. Thanks

[CarmieJo]

What are you interested in keeping? Just clams? What kind?

[dfisch1]

I will be starting with softies to begin with, I am teaching my wife as I go along. I would like to keep Crocea Clams. I was thinking of putting the MH over the center of the tank and using it like a spot light and setting the clam as a central feature in my tank.

[CarmieJo]

I am not a MH expert but I think that would work. Rule of thumb is that thelight casts enough for a 2'x2' section. The only issue I see it that you might not like how the tank looks if it is not evenly lit.

[lReef lKeeper]

i have a 150 fixture over my 40b frag tank and is does the job and would be excellent for a clam. in fact my fixture is for sale !! lol

here is what it would look like with a 14k bulb ...

[dfisch1]

I got a 175 14K MH from a friend at a LFS for 125.00. I am building a canopy that will house the light. Check for pics in My 40 gal thread.