LR Lighting Spectrum / Intensity

[SnowManSnow]

Yes, it is yet another question from a newb.

Here goes. Seems to me that all the intense lighting used for inverts and such shouldn't be needed for LR to floursih. BUT...seems to me that one would need the correct spectrum of light to accomplish this. (I'm hoping this is right since cost is an issue for me just getting started).

What spectrum and intensity do I need for LR without inverts and such? An even MORE USEFUL quandry would be ... what specific bulbs/brands/types of lights would you guys recommend to grow nice things on LR. I know that some of you can get REAL technical here, but if I were going to the LFS to buy lighting, what do I need (only LR at this point remember... please no DRASTIC overkills)?

<--Learning as I go. I should be an expert in 60 years!

Have a great day everyone!
B.

 

[Anonymous]

Because its hard to know what might be on your rock, it can't be said exactly what you need for lighting. Generally, however, you won't have anything that requires intense lighting on your rock. By the way, you might not have anything on your rock beyond algae and bacteria and some worms - you never know.

So, since you aren't going to have SPS coral on your rock, you can pretty much put any standard lighting on your tank, with the only thought being don't use normal flourenscent's only because it will encourage algae growth.

I'd recommend power compacts, 1/2 actinic frequency and 1/2 high K white. They will grow corraline algae and give off enough light for whatever coral/anemone you might have.