How many T5s do I need???

[reefersRus]

I saw a post on here a while back detailing the number and type of lights needed for the depth of your tank. Now I cannot find it. Can anyone help?

I am starting up a new tank ( 40 breeder).
It is 36" long, 18 wide and 16 tall. I would like to keep mushrooms, zoas, polyps and maybe some LPS later. So how many t5 bulbs do I need?

Thank you all for your time.

[mattgeezer]

4x 24w t5ho should do the trick mate!!!

[gazog]

I agree, 4 should be plenty for those type of coral.

[reef_guru]

yup piggy back gazog

[reefersRus]

Ok 4 is good for the tank but should I use 39 watt (they are 36"-length of the tank) or will the 24 watt be ok (they are only 24")?

[geekdafied]

I would do 3x39w (36") on it. 1 single reflector is good for 6" of tank especially at shallower depths like yours. Anything else is wasted light.