Combatting shadowing in a small tank

[MONTANTK]

Fingers crossed as I added my first acro into my system today. As I did that I realized how big an issue shadowing might actually be in my tank. I know a fair amount about acros but have yet to actually attempt them. I’m looking for idea on how to combat shadowing in my tank. It’s a 7.4g tank with an AI Prime HD and black sand. If only 12inch T5 fixtures existed

 

[driftin]

Pretty sure Gieseman makes a 12" bulb, but I can't speak to spectrum/availability/etc

Perhaps LED strip lights would be an option too

 

[tankstudy]

I'd raise the light and increase the intensity on the unit if you haven't yet.

It will still have some shadowing but you'll get a bit more coverage.

 

[melanotaenia]

I had the same problem early on in a smaller tank with Acros; you will need to have some smaller LED that you can angle to prevent shading or invest in some fluorescent to supplement the LED. Otherwise once the Acros start to put on weight they will shadow themselves out.

 

[MONTANTK]

I had the same problem early on in a smaller tank with Acros; you will need to have some smaller LED that you can angle to prevent shading or invest in some fluorescent to supplement the LED. Otherwise once the Acros start to put on weight they will shadow themselves out.

I might have to look into that. I’m going to try and look for a 12” T5 fixture in the meantime. I was only planning on having the prime until spring anyway