T5 bulbs for coral coloration

[boldo]

Good call on testing. Let us know how it goes. Also, consider a reflector upgrade if you're still using stock ones. Cheap way to boost PAR by 10–15%.

[southpaw1]

Good call on testing. Let us know how it goes. Also, consider a reflector upgrade if you're still using stock ones. Cheap way to boost PAR by 10–15%.

+1 on reflectors. I switched to ATI Sunpower and gained 50 PAR at the sandbed. Worth every penny.

[Kalimero]

Don't stress too much, emeraldh. T5s take time to dial in. My tank looked meh for months until I nailed the bulb combo and dosing. Now it's a rainbow. Patience pays off.

[steadsly]

Yeah, chill and tweak one thing at a time. Swapping bulbs and testing alk in the same week's a recipe for confusion. Slow and steady wins the reef race.

[Scalekeeper1]

Final thought: if you're still not happy after all this, consider adding a single UV bulb. It's niche, but some swear by it for reds and oranges. Just don't overdo it—5% max.