Colormax, true actinic, kelvins... oh my

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo
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Feeder Fish
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Mar 24, 2007
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Let me preface this by saying I don't know much about lights.

LFS was low on product and sold me two different Coralife double linear strips. One is the freshwater version and contains:

1. 21 watt Colormax Full-spectrum T5 Fluorescent
2. 21 watt 6,700K Plant Lamp T5 Fluorescent

The other is the saltwater/reef version and contains:

1. 21 watt 10,000k Daylight T5 Fluorescent
2. 21 watt True Actinic 03 Blue T5 Fluorescent

I have these lights on a freshwater tank with red and lutino Oscars and I feel like the freshwater package brings out their colors more. Can anybody support or refute? Are these lights equally suited for my needs?

Thanks
 
you will be just fine
 
I guess what sparked my concern was Rex's guide.

He says Actinic bulbs and 50/50 bulbs are not good bulbs for planted tanks. Should I just live with the True Actinic bulb for now or would it be in my best interest to use something with a Kelvin rating more condusive to growing plants?
 
i would deff. do something with more kelvin, but it really depends on the types of plants. some plants dont need that much light and others need as much as u can give them. I would take back the marine light because that wont do u any good. aside from that, the T-5 will do what ever u want it too! enjoy
 
Amazon Swords
Java Moss
Glossostigma elatinoides
Marsilea quadrifolia (Clover)
Marsilea minuta (Dwarf Clover)
Anubias nana (Dwarf Anubias)
Eleocharis acicularis (Dwarf Hairgrass)
Eleocharis parvula (Dwarf Hairgrass)
Echinodorus tennellus (Dwarf Chain Sword)
Hemianthus callitrichoides (HC)
 
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