acropora lighting

icyglaze · 07-31-2006, 09:00 PM

I am currently about to start a new 75 gallon reef tank, and I wanted to get acropora for it. I was wondering if I would have to get metal halide lighting or could I get away with using VHO T5 fixture? and if so, how much lighting do I need?

please help! >< thanks!

Bruce · 07-31-2006, 10:00 PM

I say that maybe a 6 or 8 bulb t-5ho fixture would be fine. I have a 4 bulb over my 55 gal and my brown acropora is completly neon green now. Eventually I will post pictures. I think that the 6 bulb would be fine, but hey, 8 wouldnt hurt either

coral reefer · 08-01-2006, 02:06 AM

The greater the intensity of light you have the better as most Acropora sp. come from shallow water which often is out of water for a period of time during low tide.
Now certain Acro's will live in lower lighting, but will assume a duller color for the most part. The blue/purple species are the most light demanding however as far as hardiness. I would start of with Bali slimmer or Millipora Montipora or Rugosa as a starter Acropora. Acclimation is the key also to the success of your acro in that you don't stress it out and bleach/kill it due to drastic changes in light intensity!
Good luck as they are awesome corals. Montipora may be another alternative for you as well for small polyp stonies...