T5 lights for 12 inches of depth

[Ron Popeil]

I have two 48" x 18" x 12" acrylic tanks im setting up. I would prefer to light it with just T5s. Most likely I'll have at least one of the following: quadricolors, crispas, haddonis or macrodactylas.

Ive only ever illuminated my anemones with 400w halides. So this will be a change for me....should I use two 48" T5 bulbs or four, at just 12 inches of depth, not including a layer of sand...

I am inclined for the latter, but would like to hear input. If two bulbs will work, I would prefer to stick with two....thanks!

 

[Toddrtrex]

Will they have individual reflectors?

I have only used T5's for supplemental, but will be using only T5's for when I set up a 40 breeder. I am going to go with either a 4 or 6 bulb fixture. Have a feeling a 6 bulb fixture will almost be overkill, but will give me lots of bulb options. This is going to be for either one or 2 of my Haddonis (( which are under 250's, 2 of them in the larger tank )), I won't mix anemones when it comes to Haddonis, so can only comment on them.

Mine have done fine with lesser light in the past, but seem to thrive with more, so with just 2 bulbs I would suspect they would do okay, but would look better under more.

 

[Ron Popeil]

yes, each will have individual reflectors. ill probably go with four bulbs over each tank. thanks for the input todd.

 

[garygb]

I would also suggest 4. In that shallow of a tank, two bulbs might be fine, but 4 would be even better. I would suggest going with a good quality bulb such as ATI. With t-5s you can also have bluer colored bulbs and still maintain very high PAR, e.g. Aquablue plus. If you haven't already, you can read the T-5 thread in the "lighting and equipment" forum for more specific information. The Grim Reefer is very knowledgeable of the various PAR reading with different bulbs and can advise regarding bulb combos.

 

[Ron Popeil]

alright then. consider it done!