54 gallon bowfront lighting

[BMW1600]

 

So here's my tank. I have a Deep Blue 4x29 T5 on it. (This was all a gift.)

 

The light sits near the wide/front end of the tank near the front. Obviously this leaves a lot of tank without direct light. I also am not sure the light is enough for what's directly below it.

 

Anyway, would it make sense for me to switch to something like a single MH pendant hung over the middle? With a bowfront I just don't know what other options I have. I also want to keep it simple and not intrusive visually since (i) my wife would kill me and (ii) the tank is in the living room near the TV.

 

Thanks,

 

Dave

[yagerboy]

MH's are brighjt and may cause issues with the TV, but a good choice if you are not concerned with it interfering witht he TV picture/extra light.

[smallreef]

Do you have a canopy? if so then the MH would probably be okay as long as it could have some air circulation....

[davelin315]

Today's MH come in all shapes and sizes - you can find some really nice pendants if you don't have a hood.

 

As far as what you've got, doesn't look like the corals need more light at this point. If you're concerned about the tank and keeping it all lit, angle the lights a bit from the front to the back so that and then angle one from back to front. You should get improved light throughout with that, despite the way T5 lights are designed. Also, check into the quality of your reflectors - it may be that you can do better with better quality as they increase the amount of light you point into the tank.

[BMW1600]

Thanks for the comments. No hood, just an acrylic cover that covers probably 2/3 of the top. The back is open for air/hang-on stuff.

 

I will try moving the light around in the meantime.

 

If I was to go with a pendant, would you folks suggest a 150w?

[John]

I agree with Dave...I don't see a problem...tank looks great...

[BMW1600]

Thanks

 

I should really spring on a sump before I get another light I suppose!

[smallreef]

Sump... yesssss much better bank for your buck vs. a new light that you dont need