Considering a switch 10,000K to 15,000K - Opinions?

[ousnakebyte]

I posted this in the Lighting Forum, but I also wanted the opinions of clam keepers.


Well, I currently run 150 watt XM HQI (double ended) bulbs (and 2xVHO actinics), and I'm considering a switch from 10,000K to 15,000K - staying with XM. I've read through much of the online material and heard JB speak at our symposium last summer, but I just wanted to hear the differing opinions out there. I should say that I have been quite pleased with the growth I've received from the XM 10Ks, so some might say if it's not broke, don't fix it.

The look of the 20Ks is just too blue for me, plus I think I would lose too much par. What does everyone think? Is switching to 15K going to decrease the par too much? If I were running 250 watters, I would have no reservations about it, but with 150s, I just don't know. I have two clams on the sand bed that really like that light (one is a maxima). And, I would like to add a crocea in the future. I like to keep the clams on the sand - not in the rocks.

Thoughts? Am I gonna lose my maxima...? Significantly reduced coral growth? Better coloration? Okay, I know no one can answer that, but I would like to hear opinions.

Cheers
Mike

 

[s3aL]

Im running 2x150w 15k xm's myself. Just put them in 3 days ago and I have a few clams. So far so good and they seem to be happy with the bulb. But only time will tell since they are new bulbs. But I think clams should be fine under that bulb as long as you have a shallow tank (18" and under) and dont put any croceas or maximas at the bottom of you tank.

 

[tomterreefic]

I'm running 2-175W XM 15K SE over my clams. This Maxima is setting on a flat rock, practically on the sand. He's been there for almost a month now. He seems fine. I like the 15K look. I even have an actinic and a 50/50 for effect. But the 15K is nice. No Yellows. My acros seem to enjoy them as well.

 

[ousnakebyte]

Thanks both for the input.

tomterreefic - is that on your 30, 24 or 10 gal? How tall is the one you have your maxima in...? My 75 is ~18-20 inches tall.

Cheers
Mike

 

[tomterreefic]

The Maxima is in my 30 Gal tank. So that's what 16" tall? I only have about a 1/2" sand bed and my MH are about 8" off of the water. I have a smaller Crocea that's about half-way up under the same lights. And it's happy as... well, a clam
Hopes this helps ya'

 

[tomterreefic]

I forgot to mention that I've been running these bulbs since the first week of March and haven't noticed any color shift. Of course, I see it everyday. But thought I'd add that .02 worth.