t-5 lighting

[baileycm]

whats the best color of t5 VHO bulb to bring out the color in zoas. I would like the effect that halide lights give them.....dunno if its possible with t5 just wondering.

 

[BL1]

When you say the effect that halides give, are you talking about the "shimmer", if so you can only get that effect with MH and LEDs. But, as far as bringing out the colors in Zoas, it all depends different spectrum of light will make different colors stand out in your corals. Actinics will make the greener corals stand out and pop more.

 

[Kazarko]

Zoas will do well under t5. I have never had any colors fading from any specimens I got. SPS are a different story.

 

[baileycm]

any specific brand youhave prefer.....i believe i ihave uvl all four bulbs 24" HO

 

[Kazarko]

I don't have very good bulbs, still have the stock ones from last year and they need to be replaced. There is a reef oriented LFS somewhat close to me that sells a large variety of good bulbs so I'll probably shop around myself. Others probably know more than me about bulb types, no matter what you get, they all need replacing eventually. It also may depend on how blue you want the tank to look.