T5 vs PC

[kkgeorge]

I recently set up my first planted tank, it's a 9 gallon planted tank for apistogramma cacatuoides. Right now I only have low light plants (Anubias sp., java ferns, and Bolbitis heudelotii). My lighting consists of 32W PC and was thinking of upgrading my lighting. Do you guys recommend T5 or PC. While keeping reef tanks I have heard people recommending T5 over a a lil bit more powerful PC does that cross over to the freshwater? Any suggestion would be greatly appriciated.

Coralife Aqualight Compact Fluorescent Fixture
http://www.marineandreef.com/Aqualight_ ... s53101.htm
Current USA Nova Extreme T5
http://www.marineandreef.com/Nova_Extre ... u01136.htm

-george

 

[ceg4048]

32 watts PC over a 9 gallon tank is a lot of light. I'd suggest you think more about upgrading your CO2 first. PC bulbs are typically T5 unless the bulb vendor is just using the moniker "PC" to describe a different type of bulb with a similar connector type.

Cheers,

 

[plantbrain]

I think with good PAR meters, we are finding that T5's really kick the snot out of PC lights.
Why is somewhat still being debated, but the meter readings are pretty convincing.


Regards,
Tom barr