MH bulbs spectrums...10k,14k,20K discussion

[coralcrazy]

Hey guys, alright i am trying to figure out what my options are for lighting. I know 10k is suppose to be used for opt growth, and 20K are for color. 14k's seem to be in the middle of the spectrum, do they provide growth and color?? I heard 14k's end up fading to a different color after a while...just trying to figure out what spectrum is the best.

 

[jadakiss]

good ? i want to know the same thing too:givebeer:

 

[coralcrazy]

yea..pro's and cons would be sweet also

 

[jackson6745]

If you want growth keep low phosphates

If you want colors of all spectrum's go with 10k + lots of actinic

If you prefer a blue cast to the tank and nice greens, reds, and blues, go 14k or 20k

The truth is lighting is lighting is not top priority for growth and color. It's all in the nutrient balancing act.

 

[fernandokng]

That's probably the easiest to understand explanation I've heard. I like that it!

If you want growth keep low phosphates

If you want colors of all spectrum's go with 10k + lots of actinic

If you prefer a blue cast to the tank and nice greens, reds, and blues, go 14k or 20k

The truth is lighting is lighting is not top priority for growth and color. It's all in the nutrient balancing act.

 

[tommy818]

like that toooooo

 

[jackson6745]

Glad you guys like that

 

[lfsmarineguy]

6500 is supposed to be best for growth since it mimics the noon day sun but like Jackson said, lighting is only part of it. I personally like the natural look of 10k mixed with actinic. My fixture on my 120 has 2 250w 10k and a 150w 20k and the colors are amazing. Easy to see the difference between the bulbs if I turn them on and off to compare.

Another aspect to consider when picking a bulb, is which manufacturer and what wattage. The same kelvin rating is going to look different between different wattages. 2 20k bulbs from the same manufacturer will look visibly different at 150w / 250w / and 400w. There is also the element used within the actual bulb to consider as well. Your standard DE 20k isn't going to look the same as a bulb utilizing radium, for instance, even at the same kelvin rating. The radium is going to look a lot bluer.

Best thing to do is pick a manufacturer you like then pick the spectrum you want in regards to what goals you have for the tank.

 

[rookie07]

I have seen a few corals under 14k 150MH and and 20k 150MH...the 20k was so much better...even after about 10 mins in the new lighting(20k) the corals(leather,torch,sps,etc) looked much better...

I have also been told that 10k is better for growth, and 14k is in the middle and 20k is worst for growth(I realize this contradicts previous statements)...of course, I AM A ROOKIE...this is just what ive been told
But I do agree that water conditions have alot to do with it...

 

[smcooler]

Try some radiums great color and growth at 20k. crisp white blue on pfo hqi 400 watts. The best lamp i have ever used.


stan

 

[PhoenixOne]

I use XM 150w 15000k. Are those good or should I be using another for growth and color?

 

[midtownman]

i got a 250 watt 15k what is that good for?

 

[Chris5]

used to have an HQI 150W 20K AB Bulb ... The colors on my tank were amazing and i barely needed any actinics because it was so blue but more of an ice blue ... i loved it ... couldn't say much about the growth though didnt have it long enough ...