t5 versus compact fluoresent

[DGC]

hello all

i need help please. i would like to use 5 x 9w (6400k) cfl's spot bulbs,(40/45w), or should i use 4 x t5 39w.

i am looking for a medium to heavy planted tank which is 18 inch high and 70 gal.

please could somebody give me some advice.

thanks

 

[cradlefan]

T5 All the way, it's got way more water penetration, if you were thinking of any high light foreground plants. You will be much happier with the results you get with a T5 or T5 HO

 

[jpappy789]

Between the two I'd choose T5.

 

[DGC]

thank you so far, had hoped cfl would win as its much cheaper but i really want the t5's

 

[dbosman]

hello all
i need help please. i would like to use 5 x 9w (6400k) cfl's spot bulbs,(40/45w), or should i use 4 x t5 39w.
i am looking for a medium to heavy planted tank which is 18 inch high and 70 gal.
please could somebody give me some advice.
thanks

Five 9 watt CFLs is 45 watts of fluorescent light, which would be low light. On the high side of low, but low.
Four 39 watt T5HOs is 156 watts of fluorescent light, which would be very high light on your tank.

A standard 70g tank with two 54 watt T5HO lamps and decent reflectors (one reflector per lamp) is medium to high light, depending on the quality of the reflectors.