PDA

View Full Version : Lighting question


Grandfinale03
01/25/2006, 08:24 PM
I have a 65 gallon 36" reef tank I want to illuminate. I'd like to have a variety of corals, and maybe even an anemone (with a mated pair of clownfish) or a clam.

I am considering 2 options: 1) A 384 watt compact fluorescent light fixture (4-96 watt bulbs), or 2) A 342 watt combined HQI & compact fluorescent light fixture (150w. HQI & 2-96 watt cf's).

Compact fluorescents are definately cheaper, so I want to do that preferrably. I don't have a chiller and don't want one unless I absolutely need to. What are the advantages and disadvantages of these 2 fixtures? All of your experiences and opinions are appreciated!

Grandfinale03
01/26/2006, 06:28 AM
bump

Grandfinale03
01/26/2006, 05:19 PM
bumped again..... sorry sir didnt mean to bump you. Any help here?

balberth
01/26/2006, 06:20 PM
Have you looked at T5's in a fixuture with individual reflectors?

CF, though perhaps initially cheaper, seems to be going out of favor due to cost of tube replacement and relative inefficiency.

The MH option will give you those cool ripple lines and will also give you a section of the tank with higher light for stuff like that clam.

--Albert