Thoughts on new halide setup (par levels)

[Dana Riddle]

Just a couple of comments. Light intensity needed for expression of coloration in some Acropora specimens is roughly that of the photosynthetic saturation point, although intense violet/blue light seems to trigger color generation by tricking the coral into 'thinking' it is in shallow water. If you decide to remove the shield on the light, be sure there is little or no chance of water splashing on a hot lamp. This happened to my tank years ago while I was on a trip. My wife didn't notice the glass shards (from the outer globe) in the tank but did see corals' tissue losses on the sides exposed to the lamp. I suspect this was due to an increase in UV radiation. Second, it is much easier to clean a shield than to scrape salts welded to a hot glass globe. But it sounds like you know that already.

 

[Velcro]

Just a couple of comments. Light intensity needed for expression of coloration in some Acropora specimens is roughly that of the photosynthetic saturation point, although intense violet/blue light seems to trigger color generation by tricking the coral into 'thinking' it is in shallow water. If you decide to remove the shield on the light, be sure there is little or no chance of water splashing on a hot lamp. This happened to my tank years ago while I was on a trip. My wife didn't notice the glass shards (from the outer globe) in the tank but did see corals' tissue losses on the sides exposed to the lamp. I suspect this was due to an increase in UV radiation. Second, it is much easier to clean a shield than to scrape salts welded to a hot glass globe. But it sounds like you know that already.

Thanks, Dana. I think the tank is pretty happy with these seemingly low numbers. I’m going to add 4 overdriven t5 for good measure. Eventually I’ll add two blue reefbrites for some of the crazy acros I have but this isn’t a priority.

 

[Velcro]

Well, your clam looks good down on the sand, so things must be okay.
I actually never measured PAR in any of the tanks I ran MH on.

I thought it is looking good too. I just wasn’t sure how long it would take before I saw issues or even what symptoms of too low of light would be.

 

[ATXreefer]

Did you ever add the t5's and did your alk consumption increase at any substantial rate? I know it's been close to four years since the last post, but would love to see a pic of the tank if it's still running. Thanks.