Bulb replacement time Which Way to go?

[Tropical Buff]

So I am getting ready to replace my PC bulbs in my current light running 4 65 watt and was considering a different direction on the light spectrum I current have 2 10k bulbs and 2 actinic. I was looking to get a bit more "pop" so was thinking of either 2 50/50 bulbs 10K/460nm and either 2 420nm or another 2 460nm. to enhance the blue a bit more.

This is my last time to replace the bulbs before going to either T5 or LED but its just not in the budget to replace the light now so I am trying to optimize what I have.

What are your suggestions???

[Sir Patrick]

I think I would go with 2 10k and 2 actinics. You will need the light output of the 10k to grow your corals. Then add the 2 actinics, for color.

[Tropical Buff]

Thanks for the input so you think I will definately impact growth if I add more blue?

[Tropical Buff]

Anyone else have suggestions???

[schminksbro]

I would go with a 50/50 and an actinic. Coral use blue light in the range of 420-460nm. This is the color range that penetrates deepest in the ocean. It is a myth that actinic lighting is only for making colors pop. The 10k will wash out your colors.

[Tropical Buff]

Thanks for the added input, I also prefer a more blue looking color to the tank.

Now the question becomes 420 or 460

[Sir Patrick]

I would go with a 50/50 and an actinic. Coral use blue light in the range of 420-460nm. This is the color range that penetrates deepest in the ocean. It is a myth that actinic lighting is only for making colors pop. The 10k will wash out your colors.


You beleive this true????

I beleive this true also.......unless growing high light corals. Glad to see someone give some input agreeing on what I have been thinking, instead of what I have read.

[Tropical Buff]

I am glad to hear this, I think I will get both 420 and 460 and evaluate what is most effective in growth as well as cosmetically pleasing visually

[schminksbro]

It isn't simply my anecdotal belief. It is well documented in countless studies. Pretty much any book on reef keeping or corals will tell you the same thing.

You beleive this true????

I beleive this true also.......unless growing high light corals. Glad to see someone give some input agreeing on what I have been thinking, instead of what I have read.

[purerebel]

I use ATI blueplus and coralplus bulbs ( adds alittle purple) and I have noticed a nice change in both growth and color by taking out the aquablue specials and going with the coralplus. Might just be me :embarrassed: Even my SPS is doing very nicely and colors look better to me anyways.

[Tropical Buff]

Great info thanks definately gives me more to think about