T5 in the old day before led for a 24x24x18 tank

[Patx]

Hi, i search and found old post here and there.

What (was) the requirements for T5 for a ~ 45g cube 24x24x18 tank.
I saw 6x and 8x T5... that's seem a lot !

I got 2x install as backup that i never use (since 2014) in a canopy and when i light them up alone today... it's look enough light. (Just 2x)

Did i miss something ?
4x maybe but 6...8x what the ?!

Thk.

 

[DanTheReefer]

For low lights (mushrooms, favia, etc) you can get by with 2, for acros probably 6. I had 4 over my 75g (18” wide) and it was about 400 umol in center 6” deep, light mounted at 6”

 

[rtparty]

For most setups, tank width (front to back) is what determines how many bulbs you need. 1 bulb for every 3-4” is a great start. Then you get into how good are the reflectors, the bulbs, are they properly cooled, what kind of corals, etc etc….

 

[Patx]

Ok thk, i don't have a PAR meter on hand right now.
Its give me a good estimate

I use a A8 led at 11% white / 23% blue
at 2inch above water (no choice)

Zoa are ok... but kind of reaching.

I will slowly crank up the light !

Probably aiming for mix the A8 and the 2x T5.
ATI purple+ and coral+

Only Zoa and forest fire on top.
Right now FF ain't growing after a month and polyp extension is meh...
Goal >>> it depend... the FF will tell me...