Adding T5 fixture to LEDs

[Spikewire]

Hey folks,

I have a 48in mixed reef and I'm looking at adding an Aquatic Life Hybrid fixture. I have two AI Hydra 52s. Question do I HAVE to get the 48' fixture or, since this is supplemental, can I get the 36' and be confident in it? Aside from saving a few $$, I kind of like the look of the 36'.

Any advice/experience is greatly appreciated!

 

[this is me]

I always do shorter fixture than the actual tank.
1) light spill into the room
2) Pain in the a** to get into the tank when the fixture is entirely covering it
3) it does not look nice

 

[this is me]

nice tank btw.

 

[coralfishreef]

Tank looks good. Why the change? There may be changes to Alk and nutrient consumption and the tank may be unstable for a while.

I prefer the shorter fixture. There will be less PAR on the left and right sides.

 

[Joker]

you will definitely see a large jump in par when you do so be careful. i run a 24" reefbreeders led with 2 24" t5s and i can turn my leds up higher than 50% without burning my coral. i would have to turn my lights up by 1% on 1 channel at a time.