40g Reef Tank Lights/Other Questions

[NicksTanks223]

I am building a 40 gallon reef tank and would like some recommendations on what type of lights would be good for corals and a reef tank. I am would also like to have some suggestions on what I should stock in the tank. Thanks!

 

[Ron Reefman]

Almost any aquarium light other than the Current Orbit will work. Do you have a budget in mind?
Mars Aqua for a bit over $100 (good basic fixture)
Viperspectra for a bit more
Reef Breeders Photon V2+ for under $400 (best value for fixture with 6 channels of color control and sunrise/sunset capability) BTW these feature do NOT make it any better for the coral, just more fun for humans to play with!

 

[Bo.]

And since it came up again yesterday, take a look at the Rapid Led Corona.

 

[NicksTanks223]

Almost any aquarium light other than the Current Orbit will work. Do you have a budget in mind?
Mars Aqua for a bit over $100 (good basic fixture)
Viperspectra for a bit more
Reef Breeders Photon V2+ for under $400 (best value for fixture with 6 channels of color control and sunrise/sunset capability) BTW these feature do NOT make it any better for the coral, just more fun for humans to play with!

Just nothing to expensive should be fine. I’m looking for a light that would benefit the corals.

 

[andrewey]

As said above, most led fixtures will keep corals. You'll find people have preferences and the difference is for flattening/distribution of par, but whether you go t5, led, mh, or even most fixtures in those categories, they'll all grow most corals. Just look at what other people use for inspiration- the led list above is a good start.

 

[tamanning]

If you want shimmer in your tank led or mh but I'm getting very good results from T5 ho.

 

[Ron Reefman]

I think both Mars Aqua and Viparspectra make 32" fixtures which would give a great distribution of light end to end and grow any corals your tank is ready for. Just know that corals need way more than just good light. And more expensive light fixtures does not mean better quality light as far as the corals are concerned!

 

[nereefpat]

Does it have to be LED? What kind of corals?

 

[NicksTanks223]

Does it have to be LED? What kind of corals?

No it doesn’t have to be LED. I’m just looking for a overall good light for all types of corals.

 

[Ef4life]

I had a 24” reefbreeders led on my 40b tank for 5 years, it was a good light, the newer versions look even better.

A High dollar option is an orphek atlantik. That’s what I bought when I replaced the old fixture. I absolutely love it, but it was expensive.

 

[nereefpat]

A 4-6 bulb T5 is an option too.

No it doesn’t have to be LED. I’m just looking for a overall good light for all types of corals.

 

[ReefStable Verified Sponsor]

I would spend some time and read up on the different types of lighting. Personally, I avoid cheap LED fixtures, but T5 and MH are great, low cost alternatives. I have my thoughts posted here, but I would recommend watching some BRS videos and reading multiple opinions to decide. I hope this helps!