Some confusion on tank covers and lights, with corals and clams.

BartenderSteve · 02/26/2014, 02:01 PM

I have a 75 gal tank (48" x 18" x 21") that I would like to turn into a reef tank. I would like to eventually stock this tank with different SPS and LPS corals, some Zoanthus, Maxima and Crocea clam, and some fish. The fish I want to get are mainly fairy and flasher wrasses. I'm concerned about the fish jumping out of the tank and would like to get something to prevent them from doing so.

Is there a cover that can be used that would not restrict light from entering the tank? I have read people using many different materials as covers and would like to hear about people's individual experiences with theirs. Can I use a cover at all with my clams and corals?

The issue of lighting is very confusing to me. I've read many different articles and forums posts on the issue, and I'm more confused than ever. I'm debating metal halide and LED light fixtures. I'm leaning toward the LED because of the claims of longevity, lack of noise (this tank will be in my bedroom), and efficiency. However, some prices for LED's may not be doable for me right now. Ultimately, my goal is to get the best light for my tank inhabitants to thrive in. Would an LED be able to penetrate a tank cover to adequately light my tank for my clams and corals to thrive? If I were to go with a metal halide, what kind would be optimal for my tank?

I appreciate any help or advice

Sk8r · 02/26/2014, 02:04 PM

If you have adequate ventilation, you can use light sitting on a glass cover with a hole in it. This, for my 105, involves metal halide lighting with 2 computer fans. Look up aquarium fans online.

BartenderSteve · 02/26/2014, 02:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sk8r

If you have adequate ventilation, you can use light sitting on a glass cover with a hole in it. This, for my 105, involves metal halide lighting with 2 computer fans. Look up aquarium fans online.

If the glass cover is sitting on the top of the tank with the light in the holes, would there be a problem from the heat given off from the light? Would the fans be able to sit on the cover also?

BartenderSteve · 02/26/2014, 02:28 PM

Would a 250 watt 10k bulb be good for my size tank? Should it be 14k or 150 watt instead? Will the metal halide be enough or would I have to get T-5 lights also?

Mhay · 02/26/2014, 02:32 PM

http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/catalo.../view/id/2094/

They also sell just the netting and you can buy the other supplies at home depot for less.

julie180 · 02/26/2014, 03:21 PM

+1 for clear netting. Using glass tops with saltwater is difficult.

02/26/2014, 02:01 PM	#1
BartenderSteve Registered Member Join Date: Dec 2010 Location: New York Posts: 24	Some confusion on tank covers and lights, with corals and clams. I have a 75 gal tank (48" x 18" x 21") that I would like to turn into a reef tank. I would like to eventually stock this tank with different SPS and LPS corals, some Zoanthus, Maxima and Crocea clam, and some fish. The fish I want to get are mainly fairy and flasher wrasses. I'm concerned about the fish jumping out of the tank and would like to get something to prevent them from doing so. Is there a cover that can be used that would not restrict light from entering the tank? I have read people using many different materials as covers and would like to hear about people's individual experiences with theirs. Can I use a cover at all with my clams and corals? The issue of lighting is very confusing to me. I've read many different articles and forums posts on the issue, and I'm more confused than ever. I'm debating metal halide and LED light fixtures. I'm leaning toward the LED because of the claims of longevity, lack of noise (this tank will be in my bedroom), and efficiency. However, some prices for LED's may not be doable for me right now. Ultimately, my goal is to get the best light for my tank inhabitants to thrive in. Would an LED be able to penetrate a tank cover to adequately light my tank for my clams and corals to thrive? If I were to go with a metal halide, what kind would be optimal for my tank? I appreciate any help or advice

02/26/2014, 02:04 PM	#2
Sk8r RC Mod Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: Spokane WA Posts: 34,628 Blog Entries: 55	If you have adequate ventilation, you can use light sitting on a glass cover with a hole in it. This, for my 105, involves metal halide lighting with 2 computer fans. Look up aquarium fans online. __________________ Sk8r Salinity 1.024-6; alkalinity 8.3-9.3 on KH scale; calcium 420; magnesium 1300, temp 78-80, nitrate .2. Ammonia 0. No filters: lps tank. Alk and cal won't rise if mg is low. Current Tank Info: 105g AquaVim wedge, yellow tang, sailfin blenny,royal gramma, ocellaris clown pair, yellow watchman, 100 microceriths, 25 tiny hermits, a 4" conch, 1" nassarius, recovering from 2 year hiatus with daily water change of 10%.

02/26/2014, 02:32 PM	#5
Mhay Crazy Cat Lady Join Date: Jan 2014 Location: Woodstock, IL Posts: 468	http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/catalo.../view/id/2094/ They also sell just the netting and you can buy the other supplies at home depot for less. __________________ Maggie Current Tank Info: Coralife Biocube 29

02/26/2014, 02:28 PM	#4
BartenderSteve Registered Member Join Date: Dec 2010 Location: New York Posts: 24	Would a 250 watt 10k bulb be good for my size tank? Should it be 14k or 150 watt instead? Will the metal halide be enough or would I have to get T-5 lights also?

02/26/2014, 03:21 PM	#6
julie180 Registered Member Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Raymore, MO Posts: 2,556	+1 for clear netting. Using glass tops with saltwater is difficult.