Questions - Need some input

I picked up the 40 gallon tank which will be my sump and the coralife pump for my return. I was surprised how big the pump was. It will be tough getting the true union valve to fit. I think I will have to have the hole near the front side, use a elbow and then install the 1.5 true union. It might be easier just to use 1 inch seeing that is what the input to the pump is. I will have to make a decision once the time comes. I debated about buying all of the fittings today(11/29) from bulkreefsupply ...

I know Marc did a very extensive write-up on using a PAR meter to analyze light bulbs; however, can a PAR meter be effectively used to determine WHEN to change metal halide bulbs?

I know that we must pay attention to not only intensity of the light in the tank, but also to the color (or color shift) as the bulb ages.

My thought is to buy a PAR meter to see if I really need to change the bulbs at 6-12 months like the manufacturers suggest. I run 3 400W MHs on a sunrise/sunset ...

I am pretty sure this a macro algae. Is it good for a tank, or can it get out of control?

I've had this brittle star for years, it has been in the present tank for over 2 years, never had any worries with it. today it looks like the top of the body has been removed, its now bright orange, used to be brown, like the legs. its still moving normally, I tried to reach in and pick him up but when I touched him he quickly scooted under the nearest rock. everything else in the tank seems to be fine as well.

I sent out an email to all our users but I think it stopped at 228 people instead of the 1900+. Can someone that has registered here in the last few months let me know if you got an email from webmaster@reefaddicts.com today talking about our Facebook contest we're running right now?

Thanks. If you're one of the first 228 to sign up in January, you got the email. This only applies to people near the end of the list.