How do you guys...

**Northerly** · 11-30-2012, 12:30 AM

Light your mbuna/malawi tanks? I have been using LEDS... but I've come to realize there's just no substitute to some nice t5 or t8 lighting when it comes to bringing out the colors in fish. By "how do you light it" I mean what sort of bulb combos do you use? I plan on upgrading my lighting and want optimal algae growth and I also want the colors to really pop as much as possible.

Also does anyone have any experience with the following light fixture?

http://www.amazon.com/Odyssea-Aquari...+light+fixture

**BiGBlak** · 11-30-2012, 12:41 AM

I have a odyssea t5 fixture my only problem with it is it comes with two ballast (holds 4 bulbs). I also had that one when i had my 55g and its a beauty jump on it right away but get it from this website its way cheaper http://www.aquatraders.com/48-inch-2...e-p/52123p.htm . I buy from them because they are local and never had a problem. On my tank since i have a 60" fixture i run 3 10,000k bulbs with a one Actnic Blue bulb and i love the look( it came with two each but i bought an extra 10,000k). Hope i helped.

**Northerly** · 11-30-2012, 12:53 AM

Thanks man. I'll probably be going with that fixture, plus one more fixture with a roseate bulb, a 6500k, and an actinic bulb. I'll be adding a secondary linear fixture fo the third bulb. Do you think this will turn out well or should I try for a different combo?

**BiGBlak** · 11-30-2012, 01:04 AM

the 48" one only come with 2 bulbs what size tank ?

**Northerly** · 11-30-2012, 01:19 AM

75 gallons, and yeah I plan on adding a third fixture. Also, I forgot to mention I might go with a 36" fixture as opposed to 48". I like the look that a 36" fixture gives.

**BiGBlak** · 11-30-2012, 01:39 AM

I dont understand ? your adding fixtures ? or are you looking to upgrade ? The way you put it is if you have a fixture and your going to add one to that one.

**Cliff** · 11-30-2012, 02:38 AM

Originally Posted by Northerly

I plan on upgrading my lighting and want optimal algae growth and I also want the colors to really pop as much as possible.

If your want colors to "pop" I would suggest a 6500K bulb and a fujiji purple bulb

If you want good algae growth and you want colors to "pop" try a 18,000K bulb and a fujiji purple.