LED lights

[Sandman]

I would like to hear from others on their experience, pros/cons on LED lights for Cichlid aquariums. I am thinking about getting 1 (or 2) Trulumen Pro LED striplights. (48") This would be for a 120 gallon 4' x 2' x2',with a few plants that are "low light" requirement plants. I am also wondering about light options offered, 8000K sunlight, 12000 K Diamond White, or 12000 K white/453nm Actinic blue ? Any thoughts or recommendations ? Thanks

[Dan Woodland]

I get a purple algae growth in the tank where I have Marineland LED lights installed (I had to get low profile lights to fit in this tanks situation/location).

I think the light wavelength is a personal preference - unless you need a particular spectrum for a specific purpose. I do like the shimmer affect the LED lights have on the aquarium floor. I also like the clearer looking light I get from them versus standard fluorescent lamps. I've not taken photos on a tank with these lights yet but I imagine it will not adversely affect the results.

These units were not cheap, even at Internet prices. Also, if you are looking to save money by switching don't bother. Their power consumption is not much less than a standard fluorescent fixture/lamp setup.

Dan

[Sandman]

Thank you for your reply. You are quite correct, they are not cheap.
I saw a 75 gallon tank setup with just one 48' strip in an aquatic fish shop and was very taken with how this wooded tank looked. So I am going to try a single strip with the 12k white/actinic verison and see see how it looks, I may even combine with a fluorescent light if more light is needed ? Thanks again for your response.

[Dan Woodland]

Personally I think Actinic lamps are not the right type of light for a Cichlid tank - especially because I think I know what you are trying to do... I actually have a tank with a standard lamp and an Actinic lamp on it. I'll snap a picture and post it later so you can see it.

Dan

[matt121966]

didn't want to start a whole need thread on lights.

any new commentary on LED lights ????

[aztec123]

I would personally go with a DIY led setup that way you get the color you are looking for. I would only go with cree brand. There are a few compaines selling nice quality kits online.