Just Got my MH setup do I need T5's too?

[one4gatr]

Ok all... I bit the bullet and purchased a 250w MH for my 44g corner... It comes with 4 moon LED's built in... Do I need to supplement the MH with T5's for any reason? I also have a T8 fixture on hand right now so would it just be better to supplement with that?

I plan on growing basic corals.... nothing that requires HIGH lighting... are we just talking about astetics now?

Thanks

[CoRPS]

The MH will do fine by itself. Most people who use T5's with their MH is for color supplementation. If you're not a HUGE fan of the color of your MH by itself than get a couple T5's of whatever color you'd like. If you can get T8's in the spectrum that you want then it may be perfect.

[Sugar Magnolia]

I've been running my 250w mh without supplemental lighting for years. I guess it's all just a matter of personal preference. ;)

[spw4949]

I agree, depending on if you like the color of your MH you may want to run some supplemental actinics but you don't have to.....

[one4gatr]

Thanks all... I appreciate it... got a good local deal on a 250w MH and will/am fabbing a new hood... just wanted to leave some room if I really "needed" to have the t5's. But I guess not...

[saltwaterman112]

I run MH with no T5 with no problems. I like the look when actinic are on with the MH but my electric bill is sky high so have to cut back in some areas.

[seapug]

I'd personally try to add at least a single actinic T5 in the fixture simply for aesthetics. It can really give a little extra punch to the colors. I really like the look of my tank when the actinics are on alone in the mornings and evenings.