What is the best lighting for an Oceanic model 3 sump/fuge?

[HisKid]

I set up my sump as a fuge, and I need to determine what lighting will be best for my macros. I was thinking of a 12" coralife 18watt fixture since the water level is really only about 6" deep over the live sand.

I welcome any constructive opinion that will help me be successful!

 

[LA-Lawman]

I have a model 3.... great sump. tons of space... the jali light fixture is popular... but I have seen people convert the a double incadescent fixture to two of the flourecent bulb jobbers... you just screw them in and you have cheap light to grow macros...

here are a few options that i have seen:

http://www.marinedepot.com/aquarium_lig ... sp?CartId=

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/Product/P ... 004+113346 - just drop these in a standard fixture...

 

[HisKid]

Thanks for the info. I like the Dr. Foster Smith solution. I already have a lamp I can use.

Do you think that 18watts is enough power?

 

[LA-Lawman]

depends on how much area you need to light and what you want in the fuge....

the options are unlimited. the jali fixtures are cool because they use PC's you could always fab a kit your self... just buy a retro kit and make your own housing...

 

[HisKid]

I have about 6" of water over a 18"x18" area of live sand. I hope to put some Caulerpa sp. and some Halimeda sp. in my fuge. These two seem to have a diverse vitamin content for my livestock. Both these plants need moderate lighting.

 

[LA-Lawman]

If you are gonna use a couple of those bulb type lights i would say you are ok.

check www.hellolights.com for deals... sometimes they have specials on those bulbs and sometimes you will find a better solution there also. they sell alot of coralife fixtures that are low profile and will do the job.

besides they are a RDO sponsor and have very good customer service. you could probably call them and they can reccomend a bulb spectrum for you. I imagine you will need a full spectrum bulb.... i have seen those screw tyoe bulbs used with no problems.. my buddy has three of them in his fuge and his halimeda is almost a nuisance.. 8O

hope this helps

 

[NMreefer]

Hey, If you decide to use the Coralife fixture you mentioned. I've got a used one I'll let you have cheap. I bought it and used it for one month. Send me a pm or e-mail.