Seahorse lighting options

[vsiege]

I am posting this here because my primary concern regarding light selection is the main livestock: H. Erectus. I do not want them getting darker because the light is too bright. I have read this to be the case.

I have a 30" tank that is 22" tall. I was looking into setting up a tank that had some macros, low level light corals and of coarse a pair of Erectus. I am having trouble deciding on something but I know what I need. If someone could make a recommendation with the following requirements in mind.... that woudl be great


Cannot afford LEDs

I was looking for something that was
1. Not too bright so that the seahorses will darken as a result.
2. Able to grow branches, gorgonians, mushrooms and macro's.
3. Has day and night bulbs (with dual cords for timers).

 

[pledosophy]

You could go for a Nova T5 fixture. I liked mine for a bit until I got into more light demanding corals. Make sure to keep the acrylic splash shield clean on it.

It's a good economical option IMO.

Longterm right now LEDs are still the cheapest, you just have to put the money up initially.

 

[vsiege]

Well LEDs would be amazing but the cost, yes, is alot.

Ideally having full timer control over the white, actinic and lunar/blue LEDs would be great. Marineland LEDs, while somewhat affordable, are not good, but the housing/fixture is great. The DIY LED kits are never that much cheaper..... plus I'm not into building light fixtures ... ha.

So yes, if there is a full LED fixture that meets my requirements (which I know there is) and its not 400+.... I could be game