Lighting

[cweber]

Hi to my new CR family. First of all ive skimmed throuhg the site and already love it. I think i will get most of my questions answered. Im wanting to start a nano. CF is kind of frowned on it seems. And i dont know if i can swing MH, im looking into a diy mh. Can anyone give any info on t-5, pros and cons vs. mh. Thanks

Cory

[jojo22]

what are you planning to keep??? that will help a lot with lighting requirements. also what size tank as nano tanks are up to 30 gallons.

[cweber]

Actually, if you dont mind, I will be kind of mimicing your setup. Two tens. I liked the corals you replied about, i think they were brains, and polyps,(are these what everyone calls "zoos"), and some shrooms. The reason im not converting my 55 is, not only higher startup cost but higher monthly cost. I also have a 29 laying around. What would some of you suggest? The 10 or go for the 29.

[jojo22]

I would do the 29 with the 2 10 gal tanks as a sump and refuge. Might be a little tricky to set up at first but would definetly pay off in the end. Just be sure that you have NEVER used any copper meds in the tank as it will kill your inverts coral and live rock. If you are not sure then you could easily pick up 2 new 10 gals for $20. as for lighting I love the DIY MH set up I bought of Dakar and after seeing it I'm sure you could produce one if you are even mildly DIY capable. It would only cost you about 20 or 30 bux more than a good pc fixture and you will be able to keep almost anything you want.

BTW: Imitation is the greatest form of compliment so if you want to try and copy my tank then you better get to the LFS and get some rock!!!!!!! J/K do your research first and take your time, you will be much better off in the end and your reef will look much nicer.

[Sweetpea]

I would do the 29 with the 2 10 gal tanks as a sump and refuge.

BIG DITTO to that!!! You'd have 49 gallons of volume and only have to worry about lighting the display (lighting the fuge is no biggie). I don't recall hearing of anyone doing something quite like this (well, in the 1.5 years I've been doing SW), and it sounds like a really fun project!!!

[cweber]

That was my first plan. Im not saying i know a lot, but ive been doing research fo rmy ideas for 3 months. Yes im pretty handy,im kindof redoing our house plus i weld part time,so i think i might be able to handle it. I think i will do this idea, i was going to get my plumbing and stuff for stand this weekend. If you want i will try and do step by step.

[Sweetpea]

If you want i will try and do step by step.

Please do! First of all, your documentation might be a big help to another member who wants to try a similar set-up! Secondly, we all would LOVE to see your progress! :-D

[cweber]

Cool, I will take pics as soon as i get started. What lighting should i use over a 29?

[jojo22]

If you want i will try and do step by step.

If you don't I will be forced to come stay with you for an extended visit and take pics myself!!!!!!!

[cweber]

haha that might not be a bad idea. i can soak up some exp. well i guess im gonna do a new drawing of my stand tonight and figure out my new plumbing setup. so what would be the best thing and i will see what i can afford. i assume 150 watt halide?