Lighting Question

[ekean45]

I am getting ready to upgrade my lighting to a unit that holds 6 T5's for a 60 gallon salt water tank. I would like to be able to have clams as well as all types of coral.

Do you suggestions as to which 6 bulbs I should use for optimal growth and to bring out the most vibrant colors possible?

Thanks!

 

[mr_X]

ATI bulbs are about the best. Blue plus and aquablue specials are my favorites. What are the dimensions of this tank?

 

[ekean45]

Dimensions are 48”L X 13”W X 24”H

I meant like 2 actinic, 1 white 10k....etc

thanks!

 

[mr_X]

Well, the ATI Blue Plus is a high PAR lamp that has plenty of actinic in it. I would suggest this over just an ordinary actinic lamp. It will really make your tank look good. The Aquablue specials are the daylight lamp of choice for me.
Maybe 3 Blue Plus, 2 Aquablue Specials, and a UVL Aquasun. that should give you some decent PAR numbers and look awesome.

 

[ekean45]

Not sure if I should start a new thread on this because it's a related question. But i found a good deal on a 6 bulb appliance for the T5's - ~$190 with a timer and 8 LED moonlights included. I understand that LED's are more of a cost saving over the long term but what is your opinion on LED's vs. T5's. T5's are tried and true but I've seen about 50/50 that prefer LED's. I know you can do more like the thunderstorms and dimming but just for pure coral care, what do you think?

 

[mr_X]

I like them. I use them. I don't care for the thunderstorm and other effects, and think they are quite silly actually, but the right LEDs can penetrate very well and also grow corals nicely.

 

[Convict2161]

I have to agree with Doug here, good light all around. I fell victim to the cool thunderstorm/lighting effect but soon after got bored with it. That feature is pretty useless.

 

[ekean45]

Thanks!

 

[ekean45]

I'm more concerned about which promotes better growth rather than the gimmicky things.
Thanks!

 

[mr_X]

I like the growth I'm getting out of my LEDs. It's all a matter of usable light. How much usable light is coming out of each fixture. The problem I am seeing with the LEDs is that they are very potent. People bleach corals very easily under them, and then say they are no good, while the contrary is true- LEDs are much more efficient per watt than anything else we have used up to date.

 

[Liberty]

I like my LEDs here's a pic when I was in stalling. I didn't have anything in the tank at the time. And one after, it's going to night time.