Advantage To Mounting Light Fixture On Legs?

[johnnyr]

Hi guys,

Every time I see a planted tank, they have the light mounted on legs, a bit above the aquarium. Is this necessary? Does it provide a more even amount of light to the whole tank?

 

[George Farmer]

It's not necessary. Many use overtanks luminaires for a few reasons.

1) They're an easy way to provide lots of light from one unit, rather than modifying the supplied lighting that is usually inadequate for decent plant growth.

2) Plants can be grown out of the water (emerged). Many plants flower out of the water and emrgent growth can add interest and improved growth.

3) Aesthetically an overtank luminaire can be more appealing. Conventional hoods can be a bit of an eyesore for some. Personally I like to see as little hardware as possible in the tank. An overtank luminaire helps acheive this, leaving the aquascape to be viewed with less distraction.

Luminaires don't have to be mounted on "legs". Many suspend them from the ceiling, further helping to provide the "less distraction" feel I mention.

 

[johnnyr]

It's not necessary. Many use overtanks luminaires for a few reasons.

1) They're an easy way to provide lots of light from one unit, rather than modifying the supplied lighting that is usually inadequate for decent plant growth.

2) Plants can be grown out of the water (emerged). Many plants flower out of the water and emrgent growth can add interest and improved growth.

3) Aesthetically an overtank luminaire can be more appealing. Conventional hoods can be a bit of an eyesore for some. Personally I like to see as little hardware as possible in the tank. An overtank luminaire helps acheive this, leaving the aquascape to be viewed with less distraction.

Luminaires don't have to be mounted on "legs". Many suspend them from the ceiling, further helping to provide the "less distraction" feel I mention.

Oh ok...I just picked up this 24" Coralife Freshwater 65w fixture, and didn't know if I needed to mount it.

Thanks!