Tropical Lighting

[Spooky76]

Hi People,

I went out at the weekend in search of a new light (My old bulb went). I have read up and seen that t5 lighting gives more light per watt than standard (t8) tubes. So out I went, with wallet.. I have a 4ft tank and asked the nice assistant which T5 best suits my fish / plants / tank. He said the interpet Compact T5 55w starter and a 21" (Twin) Day / Night tube. So I bring them home, go to all the hassle of making it fit, and now I dont think its enough. Its a lovely light in the middle and the night bulb gives it a nice look as it gets darker, but the sides seen too dark.

Do you think its in my head, or is the one tube not enough ?

I know they do I twin 55w, so I could have 2 x 21" lights in there. Can anyone give me any advice on this ?

Many thanks
Stu

 

[iairj84]

I would think you would want a 48'' light for a 48'' tank. You're onto the right setup though It seems way too small. 21'' would only cover half of it... It would also give you 1 Watt per gallon but it would only be on that half of the tank.

 

[Spooky76]

I would think you would want a 48'' light for a 48'' tank. You're onto the right setup though It seems way too small. 21'' would only cover half of it... It would also give you 1 Watt per gallon but it would only be on that half of the tank.

Hiya, Hmmmm. Thought so. But I have looked online and interpet dont do a 48" in the T5 range at all ! All I can find are the ones I have which go up to 21". Should I change my starter to a twin and run 2 X 21" bulbs ? Or should I not bother altogether ?