T5 lighting over a 180

HermitSolo · 12-07-2006, 04:41 PM

Is it possible to setup a lighting system for a 180G that is capable of matching growth and color with Metal halide systems? I'd like to redo the lighting on my tank for the benefit of the corals, but would like to avoid metal halides. (I'd like to avoid electric and heat issues.)

Currently the tank has (2) 60" 140W VHO actinic and (4) 96W power compact daylight bulbs. Total 560W for just ove 3W per gallon. The tank is most stocked with softies, but there are a few hard corals higher in the tank.

Thanks for any advice or suggestions.. Bill

Geoff · 12-07-2006, 08:55 PM

you could, but the cost would be more than the energy savings you would receive.

the other problem is that T-5's do not come in 6' lengths. it might be better just to stack as many 6' VHO's in the hood. you could prolly fit 6 or 8 of them in there. that would be 960w with 6 of them.

G~