lighting

[kwandrsn]

I'm building a light for a 20 gallon salt water tank. Its going to have
4 -18" T8 bulbs
I have found 3 bulbs and I don't know which one to use


ZooMed Coral Sun
ZooMed Ocean Sun 10,000k
ZooMed Reef Sun 50/50

Our could I get by with 2 bulbs instead of 4

Or would a marineland double bright led light work

I'm planning on having low to medium light coral and something for clownfish to host with

Ok also found a nova extreme slr t5
saltwater light that comes with 2 t5ho bulbs one is a 24w 10,000k and a 24w 460nm actinic bulb for $75 bucks

 

[Ziggy953]

You lighting needs to support what you plan to have in your system.

Determine what route you are going with your tank and then get lighting to support that decision.

 

[kwandrsn]

I want low to medium light coral. Clown fish maybe frog spawn. I Dobby know what you're of lighting I need that's why I am asking

 

[Mrc8858]

4 bulb t5, one taotronics LED module, or a 150-250w MH will give you the options to do whatever you want in a 20 gallon.

 

[kwandrsn]

I heard themetal halide bulbs get real hot?

 

[Mrc8858]

They do. LEDs are the best option imo but everyone has there own opinion on lighting.

 

[Ingy]

MH lights DO get hot but will pretty much support anything that needs light.
T8 and Marineland LEDs are the opposite and will not support any corals.
T5 s will support many corals and my 4 bulb system has done my montipora very well. It would be an option for you I think.

 

[kwandrsn]

I am looking to see if I can buy a 4 bulb t5 ballast. I'm wanting to make my own hood