Don't know what to do, some input on lighting please.....

[chris88]

Holly crap I almost died when I read this and the other post. I really think people need to do some research before they start blasting off facts. Look at the par values for the T5 bubs that are out there. The highest par bulbs on the market are KZ, ATI, AQUA SCIENCE, and some UVL. There isn’t any bulbs on the market then the Kz or ati bulbs.

KZ NEW GEN 315
KZ CORAL LIGHT 340
KZ FIJI PURPLE 330
KZ SUPER BLUE 310
ATI BLUE PLUS 320
ATI AQUA BLUE 330

Also have most of you even looked at a chart showing the spectral intensity the corals photosynthesize at? Well I will have to show you then. Corals only use blue and red spectrum for photosynthesis. The problem isn't your bulbs it’s your fixture. You should have better reflectors and more bulbs across the tank. I suggest a 6 bulb or 8 bulb tek or a 6 bulb ati fixture. 4 t5’s will not truly cut it for sps and clams unless they are mid way up or higher.

Originally Posted by globaldesigns

I agree with Doug, why not use bulbs that give more par value, Figi's and blue bulbs enough blue/purples in coral, but IMO do not give the light par value that would enhance growth, and what clams would use.

Before spending money on changing the fixtures, I would suggest just trying a different bulb combo, replacing maybe one or two bulbs only for now. See how that goes.

I am a fan of the MH, but I must say many of you have gorgeous setups and happy coral with only T5HO, so getting the right config and right number of bulbs is the key here. I wouldn't just change to MH, just yet, if you don't need to.

[The Grizz]

Hey Chris, I have all KZ bulbs as stated in the first post and I have 16 - 54w bulbs TOTAL but I have to agree that I think I am lacking in the reflector department. I have been looking for the best price on the TEK 8 bulb fixture's and might just have to order 2 of them for my tank.

[chris88]

Do you have your bulbs laid our 8x8 or 4x4x4x4?


Your fixtures are not horrible but a tex or ati would push out a lot more juice. It may not be lighting at all though. It could be a food issue with the clams or a parameter issue. How old are the bulbs?

[The Grizz]

[quote=chris88;568578]Do you have your bulbs laid our 8x8 or 4x4x4x4?/QUOTE]

Not sure what you are asking here Chris but I have 8 bulbs on each half of the tank, 4 timers that turn on 2 at a time per side. The bulbs are only a couple month old.

As for food/feeding ATM I am feeding phyto when the lights go off. Was using KZ Amino Acids and Coral Snow until I ran out a month ago and could not afford to get more. But that has all changed and will be getting the tank back on track and looking better then ever real soon.

Parameters have been all good for some time now but do have to get more bio-pellets and also looking into getting a better chamber for them, converting one or both of my TLF 150's to run carbon.

[chris88]

everything sounds great maybe try spot feeding the clams and the sps a bit more. Feeding goes a long way in a low nutrient tank.