T-5 Light Unit

[lt.smash]

Hi..

I picked up a used 65 gallon tank with a T-5 lighting system. I see all these threads on LEDs and frankly, I do not have $500 for LEDs, especially since I have a working unit.

Since I already have this lighting system, Can this grow soft corals? I have 2 brand new bulbs (Life-Glo) T5-HO 39W, but the unit has 4 bulbs (2 on a switch) 2 switches total.

Thank You

 

[Wmich2008]

What brand of t-5 is this? You will be fine for soft corals, as long as you purchase decent bulbs. My choice for bulbs would be ATI. Blue plus, coral plus, or purple plus would get my vote.

 

[cy93]

I would think it is enough for soft corals.

 

[Spyderturbo007]

I'm sure you could probably grow some LPS with that 4 bulb system if you put them in the middle or top of the tank. I grow LPS on the sand bed with my 4 bulb system, but they are 54w and not 39w. I honestly don't know how much of a difference the 13w x 4 will make as far as growth.

I would recommend replacing the bulbs with a configuration like Wmich2008 posted. I know nothing about the Life-Gro bulbs and have only used ATI and Giesemann. I took a quick look at the Life-Glo lamps and they seem to be more geared towards planted freshwater aquariums. They don't look suitable for a reef tank if you ask me.

 

[lt.smash]

This is an odyessa unit.

Since I have no idea how old these bubs really are, I am going to pick up 4 new bulbs.

Slot A = 2 Blue plus,
Slot B = 1 coral plus, 1 purple plus