How much light do i really need?

[Hosscooper]

I would like to get an anemone but I have a 6500k light led. I run whites and blue only. It is adjustable. The reason I'm asking is as I recall my dad had one when I was in high school and I'm very sure he didn't have anything special. It hung out at the very top of course but do you "have" to have 10k+ plus lighting to just keep one? Or sps for that matter. I know its best but is it a must?

 

[Jeremy Luke]

What are the dimensions of your tank? What light fixture do you have?

 

[Hosscooper]

I'm not sure exactly. It is a 50gal it is about48" long and24" deep. The light is a current. Led and you can adjust the spectrum. Ie take out the red and yellow

 

[saltyfilmfolks]

No, its not a must. As long as the light contains a full spectrum (6500k should) and the intensity is correct its actually fine.
Most don't like that a 6500k contains spectrums algaes like (red orange yellow) and does not contain "actinic" spectrums that make the pigments in coral pop.

 

[Jeremy Luke]

I would doubt that a current LED provides enough PAR for the livestock that you've outlined above. I fully agree with saltyfilmfolks that the spectrum really is fine.

 

[Hosscooper]

That jives with what a knowledgeable friend told me but when you start reading about all the specs you feel like it would be impossible unless you have all the right equipment.

 

[saltyfilmfolks]

I would doubt that a current LED provides enough PAR for the livestock that you've outlined above. I fully agree with saltyfilmfolks that the spectrum really is fine.

it depends on the model and distance to the coral of course. They changed the spec after lackluster reviews and tech changes.

 

[Jeremy Luke]

Anemones and SPS both need really good and stable water conditions along with a high amount of light and flow.

 

[Hosscooper]

So what if I got a second smaller ( read shorter) light that was 12k. Placed it in one area, center, could run both at the same time? Just thinking out loud.

 

[saltyfilmfolks]

As many lights as you can fit. Sure.

Keep in mind you still have to pay attention to intensity.

Intensity + spectrum = par.

When inceasing par go slowly so the corals and nems can acclimate.