What light for 5 ft. tank?

[Kamilstrom]

Hi guys,
I have question about light over 5 ft. tank(60/18/25)planted with CO2 and E.I. Should I use 4-54W HO(48'') fixture,use 2-3 tubes,hanging above tank or 4-80W HO(60'')fixture,use 2 tubes and third tube just for midday burst? In 48" fixture/tubes is more choice,like in 60".
Thank's Kamilstrom.

[Tom Barr]

This is tough call. Depends on the scapign goal, if you want a more thicker full Dutch style with lots of stems, bright etc, then the 60, if you are after a more hardscape dominated with a moderate amount of stems, slower growing, then the 48.

That's about the best thing I could suggest.

[Kamilstrom]

Thank's Tom,
I want carpet HC and D. Hair grass and in back bigger plants,so probably go with 60"?
Thank's.

[Tom Barr]

As long as the HC is not on the edge and low, you will be fine, if you raise the fixture up about 12 to 14" inches, you will increase the spread and even the PAR up pretty good.
The main PITA with 60's are the choice of bulbs are limited and cost more, more breakage during shipping.

I opted for 2 x 3ft for my 180.

[Kamilstrom]

I assume your 180G is at least 6 ft. long so 2- 36 fixture will fit. So if I'll try hc on the edge and low too,60" will not enough? Thx.