T5 size options 40b

[drezden88]

So I'm getting back into the hobby after a 10 year break. I'm setting up a 40 breeder. The only thing I'm undecided about is the lighting. This will be a mixed reef tank. Is a 24” 6 bulb ati t5 fixture to little. I'm worried it's I go 36" I will have a lot of spillage and to high par for softies and some lps. What would y'all recommend.

 

[Timfish]

It's really going to depend on the species/genotype and what the animal in question has adapted to. I'd think you should be able to find corals that would be happy with that lighting.

 

[fishguy242]

hi, welcome to the reef...
personally i would do a 36" hydroponic fixture ,dual switch ,use on timers, reefbrite bulbs,2 actinic ,2 white ,
hang 12" 0ff the water. wiwd...

 

[nereefpat]

If it's really a mixed reef, I would recommend a 24" 6 bulb fixture. Put LPS and zoas on the ends.

If you want wall to wall Acros, then get a 36" fixture.

 

[drezden88]

If it's really a mixed reef, I would recommend a 24" 6 bulb fixture. Put LPS and zoas on the ends.

If you want wall to wall Acros, then get a 36" fixture.

That's what I was thinking. Thank you for confirming it.

 

[DeniseAndy]

I run a 40g breeder with 4x36" (39w) T5 bulbs. I can grow anything just fine. I mostly have lps in this tank and some softies, with only a few sps. Keep lps low and the sps high and all is fine. Good luck! My 20L has the 24" t5s. Seems fine on that tank.
Yes spill over is there, but my tank is not in a main room for that system.