I'm just starting out planning for a 55 gallon reef tank, We were planning on Freshwater, but my wife convinced me on Saltwater.

We recently (and I mean it was delivered today) purchased a All-Glass Triple Tube Fluorescent Strip Lights from Dr. Foster & Smith's. I plan on replacing 2 of the bulbs, 1 with Coralife 50/50 Lamps & 1 with Marine-Glo Fluorescent Tubes.

What will my limitations be in a reef tank if I stick with this setup? Could I use different bulbs with this setup that would allow me more flexibility with the reef? Or should I send it back?

As far as Coral, Live Rock, Annomene's and Crustaceans???

Thank You in Advance.

You wont be happy with that light because you wont be able to keep much of anything under them. I would send them back and look for a 4 Bulb T-5HO with individual reflectors with that and quality bulbs you should be able to keep most anything you want.

That light is intended for a fish only system and will not support corals. T5 or metal halide are both much better choices. If you go T5 do as archer suggested and look for one with individual reflectors as they make all the difference in the world with T5 bulbs. I am a Metal Halide person myself and I prefer to build my lighting DIY so I can use the bulbs, ballasts and reflectors I prefer for my tastes. A good place to look for lighting is Hellolights - Home another is Reef Exotics .

I like both MH and T-5HO and I have always done the retro's because I feel you can end up with what you want that way as in ballasts and number of bulbs and the placement. I do like this ficture and so does eveybody I know that has one.

Sunlight Supply TEK Light T5 Fixture - English