[jweis]

I have a 37 Gallon (30 1/4 wide x 12 1/2 wide x 22 3/4 tall) tank that I am heavily planting with plants that require high light. I am looking for recommendations for T5 lighting (24"). I have a wooden canopy that is above a glass fitted top. I would like to know what brand of T5 lighting is best and how many bulbs I will need. I have read that the reflectors make a HUGE difference. I am not sure if I will need 2 or 4 bulbs -- I want enough light for the red plants, but not too much to cause lots of algae problems. Any advice would be appreciated. I am willing to spend around $400.

 

[Hoppy]

Just 2 T5HO bulbs with typical T5HO reflectors should give high light, as long as the bulbs are about 24 inches or less from the substrate. Most red plants don't need high light, but lots of CO2 is very much needed, especially with high light. There is no question that some brands of T5HO will give more light than others, but if the light uses good, highly polished aluminum reflectors, so you can see two extra bulbs for each actual bulb when you look up at the light, when it is off, you should get about the same light as the best ones.

 

[jweis]

Thank you very much for your reply.

 

[VadimShevchuk]

i have a 37 gallon gallon and i am running 2x24' t5 HO (fishneedit fixture) and i am able to grow stuff fine. I only blast the tank with all 4 bulbs once in a while.

 

[jweis]

My local fish store is recommending Coralife Aqualight High Output T5 Aquarium Lighting Fixture, 2X31W, 30 inch. Seems to make sense that a longer bulb would be better since it has more watts, but I am concerned about the construction of the unit. It is plastic.

 

[scape]

I have a 30" tank and went for the 36" aquadic life dual t5ho. A little overhang you ask? Not very much, and leaves my options open for a 36" wide aquarium someday.

:fish:

 

[bsmith]

This is the fixture I use on my 37. Works like a champ but you have to make sure your co2 is constant. The best value relative to quality in the hobby IMO. You can call Jim and talk to him about whatever you want specifically, he will build it.

 

[jweis]

Bsmith, do you think this fixture could be used under a canopy? I'm wondering if it would allow the canopy to rest on the top edges of the tank.

 

[bsmith]

Depends on how much room you have. If I were you I would call Jim at Catalina. He will be able to answer any questions you have. He might be able to build you one with out the shell.