Going low light on LPS

[pascal32]

How low do you think I can run for T5 lighting over a 72 bow front - 12" deep without bow, 22 " high. All bulbs ATI, UVL or Geissman.

I have a six T5 fixture than can run as 2/4/6 - individual reflectors (single sheet bent around tubes)

planning to keep Acans, Chalices, Zoos, Paly's, euphyllia, mushrooms.

thanks!

 

[Gravesj1s]

Ive done ok with that same tank having lps,zoas palys,couple acans and 1 chalice.Its a bit tricky when I change my bulbs but I think youd be fine with that fixture.

Zoas I would be more apt to put higher in the tank they seam to like bright light with some exceptions ime.Armor of gods have been a good indicator for me with light and water quality.If they start to stretch towards the light move them up.They stop growing if water quality is off or unstable, ime.

 

[jacksonpt]

What do you mean "low" light? Spectrum or wattage?

 

[pascal32]

Wattage. Trying to decide between 2, 4, or 6 bulbs .

 

[Gravesj1s]

I think 4-6 would be good but i dont have experience with that fixture.4 to start would be a gut feeling though.

 

[jacksonpt]

I would think 4 would be the minimum. I'm running 4 Geissman bulbs over my 18" tall tank with good results. Unless ATI give off that much more par than Geissman bulbs, or your balasts really over drive the bulbs, I can't imagine 2 being enough, especially if you run at least 1 actinic.

 

[teamdulski]

2 is not enough, 4 is fine and 6 is awesome.

 

[Dave VG]

I think you would be ok with 4 bulbs.