[Krenshaw22]

idk if this post goes here and im sorry if it dosent but on my lights question i want a t-5 ho fixture that is 48 inches long and is a 108 watts and 6500 k is this way to much lighting and if so can you guys please point me in the right direction. i want to be able to keep any plant

 

[ryan10517]

that's plenty of light and you will be rewarded with colorful broms and healthy plants. Does the fixture in question have a cooling fan? of not then watch your tank temperatures closely so you do not overheat it and kill your animals! good luck,

Ryan

 

[Krenshaw22]

it dosent have a cooling fan but i can easily set up one and thank you for the help. is this too much or just right for any plant just wondering

 

[ryan10517]

what size tank is this? as long as you're not putting this thing over a small shallow tank, then i'd say its good as far as light levels go. Not all plants enjoy the same amount of light, so you will just have to play it by ear and plant plants in places were they will get the right amount. Ex. mosses, bromileads, tillandsias, and other light loving plants up high in your tank, while lower light plants go on the bottom where they will not receive as much. if you are confused about any terminology, bulb types, etc... this guide might be helpful http://www.dendroboard.com/forum/parts-construction/65603-guide-vivarium-lighting.html

 

[Krenshaw22]

It is a 55 gallon long tank so it has some depth into it. And I pretty muck know the terminology I'm in the process from leaving the saltwater coral reef hobby. I will read the link You sent me. Thank you

 

[Pumilo]

I have twin T-5s over almost all of my vivs. You will be pleased with the results you'll get from that.

 

[Krenshaw22]

Thank you pumilo. Will I get great colors and plants flowering

 

[Pumilo]

Yes, but to maximize that, get the best reflectors you can afford. The TEC reflectors by Sunlight Supply are some of the best in the biz.

 

[Krenshaw22]

OK thanks for the heads up I will look for some good reflectors

 

[ryan10517]

It is a 55 gallon long tank so it has some depth into it. And I pretty muck know the terminology I'm in the process from leaving the saltwater coral reef hobby. I will read the link You sent me. Thank you

i swear like half the people in this hobby are ex reefers! haha not me though. I'm a poor college student A 2x54 watt t5ho is like perfect for a 55. Like pumilio said, you will be pleased with the 2 t5's, but good reflectors can make an alright fixture into a great one! Post pictures of your tank once you get it all put together for us to see

 

[Krenshaw22]

Lol I noticed that also. They are ether currently in the reef hobby or getting out of it. But I'm in the same boat as you I'm a junior in high school what money I get out of my saltwater goes to this hobby lol. But of course I'm gonna be posting pic for everyone to see.