Metal Halides
and T5 HO Fluorescents are available in the
correct color spectrums for coral growth from
6500K (daylight) to 20,000K (blue). So whether
you choose T5 HO Fluorescents or Metal Halides
your reef aquarium will thrive.
Fish only and freshwater
plant aquariums require far less light than
reef aquariums. Lighting that duplicates natural
sunlight such as 6500K Metal Halides or T5
Fluorescents is sufficient for most freshwater
aquariums. The chart below compares the light
output of Metal Halides and T5 HO fluorescents.
Compare
Light Output of Metal Halide & T5 Fluorescent
| Type |
Watts |
Lumens |
Lumens
per Watt |
Life Hours |
Kilowatt Hours per
year** |
Bulb Replacement Cost |
T5 HO
Fluorescent
*4-54W Bulbs |
216 |
20,000 |
92.6 |
20,000 |
946 |
$9-15 per bulb |
| Metal
Halide |
400 |
32,000 |
80 |
20,000 |
1,980 |
$30-$40 |
*
4- 54W T5HO bulbs are equivalent to to
one 400W HPS or MH bulb.
**Assumes bulbs are run 12 hours per day, 365
days per year. |
|
