Opinions on this fixture: Aqua Medic Ocean Light

[oni_XL]

For lighting an ADA 30-C 1' Cube tank.

Should I get the 70 or 150 watts? 5k, 10k or 20k bulbs? How much is too much light? WIll this work for the nano 1 footer? Any opinions/ help appreciated!

http://www.saltycritter.com/lighting...cean-light.htm

Thanks

[benny]

I think it's a great looking light, but the intensity of the light from where it's going to hang may overpower the tank visually, especially when everywhere else seems around the stand seems to be basking in the spillover effect of the light. If it does not border you, then I suppose it's fine.

On a separate note, did you check the color temperature? Seems like the bulbs are in 5000K, 10000K, 13000K and 20000K. For you, a 6000-8000K range will be more ideal.

70 watts should be fine, but if your room ambient temperature is extremely cool all the time and want to use lights to "force/control" the height of the plants, no harm trying 150 watts.

Cheers,

[oni_XL]

Thanks Benny,
I just talked to the lfs guy, he said 150 watts maybe overkill, even 70watts for a 7 gallon tank. He says I should just use a cheap clip-on 35 watter....but I hate the look of those on my clean ADA tank-to-be.

Or should I risk the 70 watts and just play with a dimmer/ filter/ lighting distance?

[benny]

I believe some of Takashi Amano's smaller tanks are up to 10 watts per gallon. Go do a search in this forum and see if anything shows up.

That being said, at 10 watts per gallon, you water management skill and nutrient control knowledge needs to be up to the mark. Otherwise, it's just going to be an algae explosion.

Cheers,

[oni_XL]

Hi Ben,
I am quite tempted to risk it. It's hard to find a clean looking pendant that fits the nano. Most of the mini lights are clip-ons and have funny casing color.

Will continue reading and looking!

Thanks.