10gal possibilities

robandoban · Jul 4, 2016

So, I hardly ever post on here, but since I'm setting up a new 10gal and I don't have very much experience with nano tanks, I was hoping to get some help.

I was wondering if I could get any input on what lighting people are using over their tanks, and how well those lights are working for them or perhaps recommend some lights for me.

I am open to any type of light really, but since I'm a senior in high school and I have to save up for a car, I don't want to spend over $125 unless I have to.
I also saw a 150 watt metal halide fixture on ebay for $80, and was wondering whether or not it would be too bright for a 10gal.

Thanks for the help!

fab · Jul 5, 2016

The big hallide could cook up a fish stew in such a small tank, and probably even overcook it.

You need small LED or flourescent lighting. Try your local aquarium club for something used. That should help the affordability a lot if you can find something.

Are you planning on sticking any coral? If you will go with fish only, life will be easier, lighting-wise, as none will actually be required. In that case lighting will really be for your benefit to show off the colors of your fish.

robandoban · Jul 16, 2016

Sorry for the late reply, but thanks! I am planning on doing mostly lps and maybe an sps or two. do you have any recommendations for any possible LEDs? maybe something like a par 38 bulb? I don't really know too much about LEDs because I've only ever had metal halides or t5s over a tank.

cloak · Jul 16, 2016

When I had my 10 gallon set up I was using a 24" AquaticLife T5HO fixture. I was able to keep quite a few different types of corals under this including a few sps corals as well. (Montipora, Seriatopora etc) If I had to do it all over again though I would go with a Kessil A160WE and call it a day. GL.

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578+3733+13822+29413&pcatid=29413

http://www.aquacave.com/kessil-a160we-controllable-led-aquarium-light.html

Lumini Aqua System · Jul 18, 2016

why noy think about this one?

robandoban · Jul 20, 2016

I'll take a look!

AMEE · Jul 20, 2016

I'm using a current orbit. You can see some pictures on my thread. There is also a pro version for more money. Regular is about 130.

Cleo642 · Jul 24, 2016

I want to set up a ten gallon. I may try this light called an aquamaxx nemo light.

robandoban · Jul 24, 2016

That looks like a pretty good choice. I went and ordered a par38 18 watt bulb from reef radiance. If one ends up not being enough light, I'll probably get another one but I'm hoping one is enough for a standard 1o gal. Here is the link. http://reefradiance.com/lumentek-18-watt-par-38-reef-model.html

AMEE · Jul 28, 2016

robandoban said:
That looks like a pretty good choice. I went and ordered a par38 18 watt bulb from reef radiance. If one ends up not being enough light, I'll probably get another one but I'm hoping one is enough for a standard 1o gal. Here is the link. http://reefradiance.com/lumentek-18-watt-par-38-reef-model.html

Par 38s were my first choice but went with the orbit fixture because of the remote and controller. I like the look of lights on goose necks. Don't think you can go wrong with those.