next best lighting to MH?

[pohtr]

What is the next best thing to MH lighting for corals? Does it matter whether its VHO, HO, or PC? Is it mostly about wattage? I do understand that the wattage isn't the light output, but for simplicity sake...

 

[tropills]

T5

 

[xdave]

T5 VHO, with individual parabolic reflectors.

 

[pohtr]

when does HO become VHO?
Also, what's the parabolic?

 

[catawaba]

Isn't a watt a watt and 14,000k = 14,000k?
Does it matter what 'source' it comes from?

 

[catawaba]

All I know is a 48" fluorescent bulb rated at 110w = VHO
60" = 140 watts.
A 48" regular fluorescent bulb is usually rated at 40w.

 

[bang guy]

The more concentrated the source the deeper it can penetrate into the coral flesh.

 

[catawaba]

Without specifics, isn't it 'generally' true that most zooxanthale (sp) 'live' just under the surface of the coral tissue? :notsure:

 

[bonebrake]

Metal Halide > T5 HO > VHO > PC > NO
:joy:

 

[bang guy]

Originally Posted by Catawaba
Without specifics, isn't it 'generally' true that most zooxanthale (sp) 'live' just under the surface of the coral tissue? :notsure:
Yep.

 

[joebob7]

you can get MH pendants for around $200
i dont know if theyre any good though

 

[pohtr]

Would you say then that a HO @ 216 watts (4x54) is better than a PC with 280 watts (4x65) because it is more concentrated? I'm hoping not.
Also, how much ( if any) can the duration of light compensate for the strength of the light?