T8 v.s. T5

[dlsrks]

Have a 29 gallon reef tank. I have a couple of questions. The lights are 30". First, how much T5 daylight in wattage should I have? I have a dual T5 fixture Second, I have a T8 fixture I want to use for the actinic. Would that be suitable for the tank?

 

[Flreefer]

2 T5 daylights and 2 T8 actinics, would be sufficient on a 29g, for any soft corals or LPS. Not sure about exact wattage of these bulbs, but it would roughly give you 100 watts.

 

[bigben2057]

IF its a t5 ho fixture I dont think you even need the t8 fixture its just wasting electric. I have a 29 gal with a dual t5 ho with one 10k and one actinic and I keep leather, brain, xenia, zoas, mushrooms,candy cane, hammer.

 

[dlsrks]

Thanks for the input. I just thinking about having a separate fixture for the lower light one hour before and after the daylights. Thats why I was wondering about the T8 I have.

 

[Flreefer]

IMO, more light is almost always better, if you've got it, use it. . Especially if it will allow you to have a dawn and dusk effect. I feel it's better for your stock, because it eases them into and out of the light, and it gives you a different look for viewing your tank.