• Which MH lamp to choose?

  • Tracey

I managed to buy a Giesemann Nova II lamp on ebay.de for relatively little money. The lamp that was there (Giesemann Megachrome Tropic 150 W) is not suitable for marine use. In my 120-liter reef, SPS corals dominate, so I am currently faced with the choice of what to buy. I am actually considering several options: - Giesemann Megachrome coral - BLV Nepturion 14,000 K - Giesemann Megachrome blue - Radium - BLV Nepturion blue I know that these are essentially two spectra and different prices, which is why I am hesitating. I don't really want too much blue light, and I want the maximum growth rates for the corals right now. Therefore, I am leaning more towards the 14,000 K option. As for the manufacturer, Giesemann will cost me no more than in the link. BLV is the cheapest (by a significant margin). There might be even cheaper options elsewhere. The reason I am considering Giesemann and Radium is clear - they are the number one brands. BLV is mentioned because it is said to be the equivalent of Ushio in the US, and Ushio is highly praised there. What can anyone recommend?

Daniel

BLV and Ushio are basically the same. If you need good growth, take BLV 10k, or better yet, Aqua Medic Aqualine 10000 150W 13K. However, you will still need to supplement with some actinic light.

Julie

Here is, by the way, a reference table of PAR levels for various lamps.

Karen2578

Thank you for the advice. I have already ordered a Giesemann megachrome coral for myself.