Is one 175w 10,000k MH enough?

[Thorkot]

I just purchased a 29gal aquarium and wish to set up a reef aquarium. I am looking into the possibility of using one 175w 10,000k MH. So my question is ...Will this be adequate lighting for this small tank?

[RazerCorals]

Yes most definately. But do think about maybe getting some Actic PC to add a cool effect to your aquarium. They also sell a 12k bulb which is pretty cool. Sort of a white blue color. Just go with whatever you like.

[fishfreek]

I agree 1 175W MH for a 29 would be fine. Usually where its recommended for more than 1 MH is when your tank is longer than 2'. A MH is good for aprox a 2' square area. So if you have a 4' long tank you would use 2 MH's to light each side. If you put 1 MH inthe middle of a 4' long tank you would have darker areas on the sides.

If you dont want to use PC actinics you should use atleast 1 NO actinc.

[Irisservice]

A 175 MH should be fine for a 29. If you plan on just using the one bulb without any supplements check the 175W 10,000K -Aqualine AB bulb. These bulbs have a 10k Ratting but they are really 13K which will give you nice white crisp light!!! What size the tank? If it 36" long i would go with 2 70W 10,000K HQI Double Ended -Aqualine AB This will give you awesome coverage and put out the same amount of light as the 175w.

[killroysrevenge]

You might want to consider heat as a factor! MH are very hot and in a 29 gal you dont have a whole lot of circulation to cool the water. Chillers are expensive.

[Thorkot]

Thanks for all of the replies. My tank measures 30x18x12. I am hoping to be able to combat the heat without a chiller. I used to have a 55 gal reef with 4 110w vho and did not have much of a problem once i added a fan to the hood. Also with a pendant...not being enclosed...hopefully the heat will dissipate into the air rather than the water. Also...what is the distance that i should put the pendant overtop of the water?

The actinic would be a great idea but i am trying to stay away from a hood. I have never used mh before..only vho and pc, so i may end up incorporating a hood later if i don't like the look of just a MH.

[killroysrevenge]

I would stay atleast 8 inches above the water.

[Irisservice]

I have a 70W HQI on a 5.5gallon without any problems!!