Reef Breeders Configuration on a 72x36x30

[455Cutlassdave]

So I'm setting up a 300 gallon as a mixed reef. SPS centered and higher in the tank, LPS further down, and a few soft corals in shaded area or near the edges. The footprint is 72x36 and a depth of 30". I will have my rock scape in two mounds in the midline of the tank. I will also keep a wide buffer around the glass for cleaning glass.

My question is regarding which way to set up the lights. I can see three main options.

1. A 48" and 24" spanning the length of the tank centered over the midline.

2. Two of the above setups spread over the width of the tank.

3. Three of the 32" lights placed across the tank at 24" 48" and 60" marks.

I already have a single 48' v2+ with low hours.

My thought is option one is the most cost effective but will not fully light the perimeter. That may be okay since I don't want anything too close to the glass. Would it look okay though?

Option two seems like overkill and would probably create hot zones.

Option 3 is probably the best coverage but will cost a lot more then option one due to having to buy 3 lights.

Any opinions are appreciated.

 

[blaxsun]

What kind of fixtures are these?

 

[Bpb]

Option 2 definitely

 

[Snoopy 67]

I have a 250, 72"x 30"x 27".
2 - 32" V-2's down the center lengthwise. Not enough in my opinion & you are adding another 6 inches.
I would go with the 2 rows also since you have 1 part of the equation.

 

[455Cutlassdave]

Okay, there seems to be common agreement on option 2. I appreciate the input.