John P.

I know this is purely theoretical unless you've tried it, but here goes ...

--Cube Garden 75-P (42 Gallons; Dimensions: 29.5in X 18in X 18in)
--Lit by MH-only Grand Solar 150w.




I really want to use MH for the shimmering effects of the single-source lighting. I know typically these MH bulbs cover about 24", but this is pretty close. I suppose I could raise the fixture higher to get more dispersion and less intensity, right?

Thanks,

IUnknown

John,
Take a look at Luis Navarro's 30 gallon cube in this link.
http://www.mynatureaquariums.com/soon/index.html

I ran a 70W MH on a 20 gallon tank. I think running MH on a smaller tank is a challenge. I was always impressed by Luis's 30 gallon cube. My dream tank was to use a Nova II on a smaller tank,

https://www.marinedepot.com/aquarium...nt.asp?CartId=

If you can, go with the PC/MH combo. I think the ideal would be to run the PC's all day and then a 4 hour burst with the MH's. And then turn the MH's on when you are appreciating the tank. The benefit of this would be a backup incase you can't keep up with the demands of a MH tank. You still get the shimmer effect, and then you have supplemental lighting for the corners that might not get light from the spot light effect. The shimmer effect is well worth it, looks very natural.

John P.

Thanks Greg. Did Luis use a MH on his 30?

Ah, those Giesemanns are nice.

As you know, Amano co-branded those before his most recent Solar series.

IUnknown

Yeah, luis's is a 150W spot pendant.