Lighting a tall tank

0live · Jan 17, 2009

Hey guys, as some of you may know, I'm currently setting up a new 37 gallon tank. My only concern is it's height, with it being 24" tall. I did raise 2/3 of the bottom up about 5" to create a shelf to move the base of the plants closer to the light.

Any tips on lighting a tall tank? Think I can get away with lighting with compact flourescents?

Thanks
Mk

Bk718 · Jan 17, 2009

are you looking for a fixture or you curious if your current one is strong enough?
PC is strong enough though you might need to go for more wattage to get to the plants. T-5 is better overall and from what i read its best to use it on taller tanks.

gmh · Jan 18, 2009

I think HO T5s would work better than normal output T5s. For example, one set of HO bulbs would penetrate light deeper into the tank than two sets of normal output T5s with similar total wattage.

bigwater · Jan 18, 2009

I use pcs on a 90 and do well. I guess the t-5s are better but never used them

excuzzzeme · Jan 18, 2009

Since you raised the level at which the plants will be residing you should be fine with the CFL's.

DAVIDFBT · Jan 18, 2009

A normal 55 gallon tank is about 19 inches from the bottom to the top. Since you raised the bottom by 5 inches on a 24 inch tall tank, it's like lighting a 55 or a 29 gallon tank. I would go with CFLs.

0live · Jan 18, 2009

I was thinking about using this fixture: http://www.bigalsonline.com/edealin...731&catParentID=18369&scId=18369&ctl_nbr=3684

and swapping out the actinic for a second daylight..

the problem is that the tank is 20" x 18" and there seems to be a rather small market for <24" lighting systems...

I'd like to get this as i consider my current lighting temporary.

If anyone has a better suggestion, i'm listening!

gmh · Jan 21, 2009

That looks like a good unit for the price. Should be powerfull enough to get the light deep into the tank. The moonlight is a nice plus.

TwoTankAmin · Jan 21, 2009

I am a big fan of AH Supply. They have a 2x36w kit that should work fine on your tank.

http://www.ahsupply.com/36-55w.htm


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Lighting a tall tank

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