T5 lighting for SPS corals

[bronzecat]

Thinking about switching to T5s for my SPS tank. Currently running LEDs but not getting the growth I want. Anyone got experience with T5s and SPS? My tank's a 75g, parameters are stable, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 5 nitrate, 8 dKH. Running two AI Primes but they're not cutting it.

[brazilianboy]

T5s are solid for SPS, especially if you're after growth. I've got a 120g with a mix of T5 and LED. The T5s give that even spread LEDs sometimes miss. What's your photoperiod like? You might need to tweak it with T5s, they're more intense.

[finnleyes]

I've been running T5s exclusively for years. My Acros and Montis thrive under them. Key is bulb combo—I use ATI Blue Plus and Coral Plus. How old are your LEDs? Sometimes it's not the tech but the spectrum shift over time.

[tideburn]

I've been running T5s exclusively for years. My Acros and Montis thrive under them. Key is bulb combo—I use ATI Blue Plus and Coral Plus. How old are your LEDs? Sometimes it's not the tech but the spectrum shift over time.

Agree on bulb combo. I'd add that T5s need replacing every 9-12 months, unlike LEDs. Bronzecat, what's your calcium at? SPS growth isn't just about light.

[bronzecat]

Thanks for the input, everyone. My calcium's at 420, mag at 1350. LEDs are about 2 years old. Gonna look into ATI bulbs. Any tips on acclimating corals to T5s? Heard they can bleach easy if you don't ease them in.

[guppywave]

T5s are legit for SPS, no doubt. I run 'em 6 hours a day, ramping up from 4 when I first switched. My birdsnest went nuts after the change. Just watch for algae, T5s can fuel it if your nutrients aren't tight.

[finhaven]

T5s are legit for SPS, no doubt. I run 'em 6 hours a day, ramping up from 4 when I first switched. My birdsnest went nuts after the change. Just watch for algae, T5s can fuel it if your nutrients aren't tight.

Spot on about nutrients. Bronzecat, what's your phosphate level? High PO4 plus T5s can mean trouble. Also, consider a hybrid setup if you're worried about losing LED shimmer.

[Azuree1]

I've had success with a 50/50 T5/LED mix. Gives the growth boost from T5s but keeps the pop LEDs offer. My Acropora colors improved within weeks. What's your current PAR reading under LEDs? Might help gauge how much to adjust.

[olanko]

Never tried T5s myself but heard good things. My buddy's SPS tank exploded after he made the switch. He uses Reef Brite bulbs, says they're killer for color. Might be worth checking out.

[graspit]

T5s are a game changer for sure. My Montipora caps went from meh to wow in two months. Just remember to replace bulbs on schedule—they fade gradually so you might not notice till growth slows.