Lighting

[G1203]

I've got my tank set up with two clowns and four snails. So anyways I would like to start getting corals but the light I have will not support the corals so I would like some recommendations for good CHEAP lights because I am just a kid.
Thank!!!!

 

[cgthebeast]

What size tank?

 

[G1203]

36 gallon bow front. The bulb i have in there is 24 inches.

 

[cgthebeast]

Well the minimum for low light corals is 4 watts per gallon, 6 for anemones

 

[obscurereef]

The cheapest I think will be a $120 LED fixture. You could do DIY LED if you're up for a project.

New Dimmable 120W Aquarium Coral Reef Fish Tank White Blue LED Light Black US | eBay

 

[obscurereef]

Well the minimum for low light corals is 4 watts per gallon, 6 for anemones

Watts per gallon isn't a great rule. Par is. To the OP, if you get a T5 HO fixture, 4-6 bulbs would suffice for most corals.

 

[cgthebeast]

My bad

 

[G1203]

Ok. Thanks

 

[G1203]

Would just a 2 bulb t5 be enough?

 

[Wolfsblood]

Maybe for some mushrooms. Honestly that 120w LED is going to be the best/cheapest option because even if you find a cheaper T5 you are going to have to replace the bulbs with some decent ones followed by yearly bulb replacement. Tell your parents that if they help you get the LED it will save them on the electricity bill

 

[G1203]

Haha ok so any brand names or places I can order them from?

 

[Wolfsblood]

Amazon.com: TaoTronics TT-AL09 Dimmable Aquarium Coral Reef LED Grow Light (120W Output, Blue/White Ratio- 28:27; Two-Year Warranty): Pet Supplies

Or go to ebay and search for "dimmable LED aquarium light"

 

[G1203]

Ok thanks a lot!!!!

 

[Wolfsblood]

No problem I got mine a little bit ago after reading through this whole thread http://www.aquariumadvice.com/forums/f11/lighting-your-reef-best-bang-for-your-buck-239661.html and I love it. I was originally going to go the T5 route also but I just couldnt justify the cost of the bulb replacements.

 

[G1203]

I think I'm gonna get a light from ebbay. It doesn't have a brand tho. It just says New Dimmable 120W Aquarium Coral Reef Fish Tank White Blue LED Light BLACK US. Are these any good?

 

[TommyP]

I think I'm gonna get a light from ebbay. It doesn't have a brand tho. It just says New Dimmable 120W Aquarium Coral Reef Fish Tank White Blue LED Light BLACK US. Are these any good?

Yes, I have these lights. I have had them for about 2 weeks. Love em.

 

[G1203]

Ok they seem pretty good especially for a small tank like a 36 gal.