6700k Bulbs

I recently replaced a blown 10k with a 6700k. I have 6x54 watt t5ho bulbs on a 75. My configuration is like this:

Actinic
10k
actinic
6700k
actinic
18k

I only got the 6700k because petsmart only carries the 6700k 18k and actinic Hagen bulbs. Which are much bright then the current brand bulbs i used to have. I have the clams directly under that bulbs and my sps. i did read numerous times that clams and sps love the 6700k temp. any truth to this???

 

True.

I have used 6700k (actually maybe 6500) lamps. Those can be good grow bulbs but are not popular anymore as there are more blue bulbs these days and people find them more pleasing to the eye. 6500-7200 are more yellow, but stuff will grow. Grow like crazy with some bulbs like the 6500K Iwasaki halide bulbs. That bulb is ancient but still is a mighty par king.

Spectral Analysis of Metal Halide Lamps
Used in the Reef Aquarium Hobby

 

So is it ok? What about the configuration? Should I get a 10k instead? If it is the same watts will it put out the same growth as the 10k? Would the only reason not to use it, cosmetic? To avoid the yellow color?

 

It looks fine with your configuration. Yes, cosmetic IMO.
How long have you had your clams with the T5s?

 

One for 4 months and the other about two weeks. They seemed to be doing well. They are small and I know it can take awhile for them to show problems. But I am hoping they will do ok. Check out the clams forum. Do my clams look ok Topic.

 

Advanced Aquarist's Online Magazine - Lateral Lines: Classification and Terminology For Reef Aquarium Lighting
this article is more important than the color of the bulb, the same k-value from different manufactures will have different par ratings.

Advanced Aquarist's Online Magazine - Feature Article: Coral Coloration: Fluorescence: Part 1
this article piggy backs the first article.

i use reeflux bulbs, and a par meter is the only way to find out which bulb is the correct one to use. imo

 

Thanks guru for the help!

I will check it out.

 

Checked out the clam thread and pics.
They look good!

As for moving them, I have moved a few by going real slow at the edge, but onetime I tried to force one to move and I killed it. I don't recommend that.