aquarium lighting

[swhastan]

Hi, guys.
I am wondering how differently 6000K and 10000K white light affect corals
and fishes. In fact, I can get 6000K bulk in very cheap price. So, If there
is just a little difference, I prefer using 6000K instead of 10000K.

Thank you,
SW

[Richard Hoffpauir]

6000K will look more yellow to your eye than the 10000K.
personally, I don't like the look of anything less than 10000K on reef
aquaria.

as for your corals, they could possibly "like" the 6000K more.
depending on the actual wavelengths of light being emitted, the 6000K
may give off photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) in proportions
closer to that of natural sunlight. but kelvin ratings are only for
color rendering... you need to look for the actual wavelength emission
histogram of the bulb to get a feel for the PAR.

in general, your corals will probably like the 10000K just as well.
and your tank will have a more pleasing crisp white color to it.

Richard
--
Richard Hoffpauir
Water Resources Consulting
http://www.rjhoffpauir.com


swhastan wrote:
> Hi, guys.
> I am wondering how differently 6000K and 10000K white light affect
corals
> and fishes. In fact, I can get 6000K bulk in very cheap price. So, If
there
> is just a little difference, I prefer using 6000K instead of 10000K.
>
> Thank you,
> SW