Lighting size & choice - full 48" or can I go 36"

[sushiray]

so I ask your opinion - as I am now trying to save a few bucks as I ready my discus 72gal bowfront tank I need a new light. this is what I am considering. the tank is 48" long but I wanted to know if you folks thought it would be ok to go with 36" light vs. the 48" full length. the 36" would sit on my glass canopy. I save $30 & also save on the replacement bulb a few bucks. so what do you think? I like the idea of the lunar lighting. I know there are cheaper options but no actinic features. Suggestions?

www.petsolutions.com

36" SATELLITE1X96W SUNPAQ + ACTINIC W/LUNAR LIGHT $119.99

34" 96W 10,000K DAY/460NM ACTINIC
$42.99

xxx

48" SATELLITE2X65W SUNPAQ + ACTINIC W/LUNAR LIGHT $149.99

not sure of replacement bulb price but s.b. >$43

[benzjamin13]

I don't see why not...but I guess it also depends on what plants you intend to keep with it, if you are going to keep plants.

[gmh]

It could leave low light 'shadows' at the corners that could detract from the look of the tank.

[geekboy]

Personally, running a fixture that wasn't full length would bug me. There are so many 48" lights in different flavors and price-points that it shouldn't be necessary to short-change it.