Lighting for 40 gallon

Discussion in 'Metal Halide Aquarium Lighting' started by erik, Jan 3, 2013.

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  1. erik

    erik Spaghetti Worm

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    Recommendations on halides for a 40 gallon tank? Tank dimensions are 36 1/2"/ 15 1/2"w/ 17"h. I plan on keeping sps up top, with softies and lps in the lower half. TIA :drummer:
     
    erik, Jan 3, 2013
    erik, Jan 3, 2013
    #1

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  2. Kevin_E

    Kevin_E Giant Squid

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    I was looking at halides for my 55 gallon (13" width), but I was told that it's simply not worth it. Halides are designed to cover a 24" x 24" area, so you have a lot of spill over and wasted light.
     
    Kevin_E, Jan 3, 2013
    Kevin_E, Jan 3, 2013
    #2
  3. erik

    erik Spaghetti Worm

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    Wouldn't the coverage be determined by the size and shape of the reflector?
     
    erik, Jan 3, 2013
    erik, Jan 3, 2013
    #3
  4. Kevin_E

    Kevin_E Giant Squid

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    I would have to direct that question to a more knowledgeable individual. I myself haven't found too many different sized reflectors (at least in terms of light spread). Then again, I haven't looked intently.
     
    Kevin_E, Jan 3, 2013
    Kevin_E, Jan 3, 2013
    #4
  5. erik

    erik Spaghetti Worm

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    Interesting, thanks. Anyone know of any reflectors with a more rectangular light spread?
     
    erik, Jan 4, 2013
    erik, Jan 4, 2013
    #5