PAR and Lumens for macro

[toothybugs]

I'm coming up short for info: What kind of PAR/ lumens should I be looking to target in a 24" deep tank? My plan is for a display refugium with a mix of greens and reds. No grasses. I have a pair of A80 Suns for appearance/ shimmer. My only fear is that they may be inadequate to punch to the bottom of my tank (60 cube - 24" all around). The rockwork will have raised plateaus for some of the more light-loving species but I want some growth on the floor of the tank too.

I'm considering supplementing them with some potent LED shoplights or something similar in the appropriate Kelvin temperature but need/want a target before I go and guess at buying the right lights.


Anyone have any guidance?

 

[mcarroll]

I would try what you have first. I'd run them at 100% – make sure you clean the dust out of them regularly whether there's a fan or not.

Also, consider adding stronger lenses (if that's an option for this model) before you add more lights. If you have to add more, look for the white growlights....no need to have that red or purple look anymore.

You might want to glance through the articles I have indexed on the subject, lots on light as well as algae that may be of interest.