Frag tank lighting

I am going to start a frag tank but want to think about the power cost of running one.

I would like to know peoples opinions on coral growth T-5 vrs MH in an actual coral frag tank that is only about 8 inches deep. Its not about the cost of the setup I am thinking long term with power cost.

Are MH bulbs that much better for fast coral growth or are T-5 just as good?

I am currently using T-5 and I will be honest I have pretty decent growth even with a 22 inch tall tank.

I also think T-5 bulbs give a better overall lighting coverage I could be wrong though.

TIA,

Beamerhack

 

Beamerhack

IMO in a 8 inch deep frag tank T5s - and enough of them, will be a great way of achieving the lighting needs of the corals

Steve

 

I love T5 lighting, but would eventually like to switch over to MHs. I don't think it's by a large margin, but I would be willing to bet that you would probably get better growth from MHs. However, the species you plan to grow are a big factor.

 

I would think so too, To me they are the only way to go MH puts out way to much heat to begin with not to mention the power cost. Is not the point of fraging corals to not hurt the ocean? Adding more Carbon footprint seems to me defeating the purpose. Thanks just makes me feel better about my plans.

 

I mostly want to start with Zoas, I really want to get into Acropora's but I want to start with frags slowly. I need to update my pictures my tank is night and day what is started like.

 

honestly for an 8 inch deep tank With MH lights it would probably get pretty warm unless you have a chiller my zoa's love T5 Ho lighting i think thy will work fine MH cost more and are hot lights just my opinion though