Lighting question

[drewcrew22]

Hey guys,

Thanks for reading my question and for any advice and or help in advance.

I have a 65g tank, my plan is a mixed reef tank with easy hardy corals, Im taking my time on the build and getting stuff a few at a time. I intend on getting top of the line lights at some point since the lighting is almost as important as the water, however in the mean time does anyone know of any decent lights that are budget friendly ,that will be good for like Zoas, GSP, Pulsing Xeina, etc. How many lights would you advise I use over this size of tank? Any recommendations are very appreciated!!!

I would also like to get a light for the sump area of course, If I decide to use some algae in the sump, Would that require a special light as well?

 

[Tahoe61]

Popbloom, Smatfarm, Viperspectra, Nicrew are all budget lighting I have used. All of the those listed will grow the coral types you mentioned.

 

[Freenow54]

Do not use a light left on permanent on your sump as algae will grow out of control. As a budget light AI primes are good for that size of tank. The App will allow you to adjust for your needs so the added cost would be worth the added expense to me. I recently added AI Glow , and Grow strip lights for fillers between the primes which I am happy with as the Glow predominates blue . I make my own supports from 25 mm extruded aluminum to keep that cost out of the picture. The strips I have are 12 inches . I am wondering now if I had gone with just longer strips if it would have been better. I am considering that on my third Tank which is a 75 4 feet long but still 18 inches deep bearing in mind that that is the consideration you did not mention . Good Luck and enjoy