Just finished reading Marine Reef Aquarium Handbook by Dr. Robert J.
Goldstein

My tank is about 1 1/2 years old, with a 175 W MH pendant, and I've had
no problems with heat or any other matter, except when I allowed the
first bulb to get old--this caused my bubble coral to shrivel up

Can anyone offer their opinion on the matter.

So just ask yourself -- Which should you be listening to? Dr Goldstein who
knows nothing about your tank, or your corals?

jc