What Bulb temperature Is Best?

Discussion in 'Metal Halide Aquarium Lighting' started by PawPawBlenny, Jul 12, 2012.

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  1. PawPawBlenny

    PawPawBlenny Astrea Snail

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    I have bought a used Corallife fixture that I plan to use on my 180 gal (96X18X24) tank. It has 3-250 MH fixtures. What temperature bulbs are best, or is it better to use a mixture of different temps? I plan to have LPS, SPS, and Clams.
     
    PawPawBlenny, Jul 12, 2012
    PawPawBlenny, Jul 12, 2012
    #1

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  2. Kevin_E

    Kevin_E Giant Squid

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    My LFS runs a 20,000 K on one of his tanks and it is stunning. Noticeable growth every week that I visit him.
     
    Kevin_E, Jul 12, 2012
    Kevin_E, Jul 12, 2012
    #2
  3. ingtar_shinowa

    ingtar_shinowa Giant Squid

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    I like 18=20k myself. I would try to look at alot of bulbs and choose one you like the most. As long as its a double ended quality halide bulb it will grow coral.
     
    ingtar_shinowa, Jul 12, 2012
    ingtar_shinowa, Jul 12, 2012
    #3
  4. bwalker9801

    bwalker9801 Zoanthid

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    It depends on how blue you like your tank. bluer bulbs tend to give better coloration and lower k will give you better growth generally.
     
    bwalker9801, Jul 12, 2012
    bwalker9801, Jul 12, 2012
    #4
  5. Va Reef

    Va Reef Giant Squid

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    +1, its just preference, and how fast you want your coral to grow, i would choose 14k for balance in color in growth
     
    Va Reef, Jul 12, 2012
    Va Reef, Jul 12, 2012
    #5
  6. PawPawBlenny

    PawPawBlenny Astrea Snail

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    ok, Thanks, I was looking at 14k Phoenix bulbs.
     
    PawPawBlenny, Jul 12, 2012
    PawPawBlenny, Jul 12, 2012
    #6