best 175W Bulb for Color

[rutz81]

I read all about how 20K's are the best bulb to bring out colors in SPS. Even more so, I see very colorful tanks running Radiums. I am using and electronic 175W ballast. What is the best 175W 20K bulb? Or, because of the lack of intensity of the 175's v.s 250's or even 400's, am I stuck with a 10K or 15K? Hope this makes sense.

Any opinions or experiences appreciated.

TIA,
Dave

 

[SunnyX]

I have heard nothing but good things about the Iwasaki 14K.

It has the highest PAR among 175W bulbs, even beats out most 250W bulbs.

 

[rutz81]

I am actually using that bulb now, you've heard right, it is a great bulb, very bright; I was just under the impression that a real 20K would be that much better(in terms of color,growth aside). Since Radiums aren't available for 175W, I was wondering what else are good 20K's?

 

[SunnyX]

Color isnt just a spectrum thing, you also need alot of PAR.

I run 10K XM's on my tank and I get great colors.

If I were you I would be afraid to change the bulbs for a lower PAR bulb, some corals may not exhibit the same color and may brown out.

You could always add more actinics to add more blue.

I find the biggest factor in coloration of corals is water quality.
The cleaner and clearer your water is the better your colors will become. Always run carbon and preform weekly water changes.

 

[rutz81]

Ahhh... I was under the impression that the bluer the bulb, the better the color. But, now that you mention that it is PAR as well, I noticed a big increase in color in a few corals when I went from XM 10K's to the Iwasaki 15K.

Recently(3 weeks ago), I started doing more regular water changes(8/9 Gallons /week). I have been getting a little better polyp entension also.

 

[SunnyX]

Stick with the bulbs you currently have.

Just make sure to do regular water changes and keep the water as clear as possible.

 

[Racenrich]

My fav 175w bulb is the Aqualine AB 10K, with a spectrum of 13K....i used them for 2.7yrs on my 55G Reef with very nice growth and color.

I currently run the 250w version on my current 120g.....


RJK