Lighting overkill

[Cryptocaryon]

I'm running a Mars aqua 165w over a 15 gallon at approx 5 inches away from the surface. The lights can be controlled with dimmers but even at its minimum intensity is these too much for any corals I will introduce? The manufacture recommends a 12 to 18 inch gap between the fixture and water level. Anyone have experience/recommendations with this type of light on smaller tanks.

 

[jda]

You might get hot spots that close. The height is suggested so that the light can spread out and mix. I have never used this light on a small reef, so take this for what it is worth.

 

[Phil D.]

Waaaaayyy too close!! Would highly recommend the 12" height. You will cook your corals with the UV.