L.E.D., moonlights, blue actinics

[amstar15]

what good are all three of these lights, and what/if is there any difference between them. I have two 175 10k halide bulbs and two 65 watt blue actinics. is worth anything to try L.E.D.'s or moonlights.. or are the same as blue actinics

 

[Navarre]

LEDs are weaker than actinics and should be used as a nighttime period. Actinics are simply too bright to be used as a nightlight.

Whilst the tank can operate happily with no lights at all during the night. I personally use them because the reef is never in full darkness, (the moon will shine onthe water most nights).

Also, if fish are startled at night then they can harm themselves if they cannot see where they are swimming. if they are startled then they will be swimming fast to escape percieved danger and this could be a danger should they swim into sharp corals, liverock or awaiting anemones (like my copperband did once ).

LEDs offer no benefit in the same manner as halides do but the practical side ofthem does help more thanhinder IMO.

 

[Aquascaper]

Ok:

LED's are low power and are commonly used as nightlights and illuminate a small 'spot' (I personally use cold cathodes running on 6v for a more balanced effect).
Moonlights are similar to LED's and cold cathodes, just a collective name for nightlights.
Actinics are a specific spectrum of light which enhances colours and coral growth by replicating light wavelengths not produced by other types of lights.

HTH

 

[amstar15]

so what is this cold cathodes thing? where can I find one, now much is it? Ive also heard that you can buy LED lights at a walmart/radio shack? are they just blue led lights for cars?

 

[FrAnK3333]

You can but the LEDs at radio shack but it slike 2-3 dollars per blue LED, depending on the tank size you might need a ton to have the moon affect.

 

[steelhealr]

Hi..check out our thread on this. SH

http/www.fishforums.net/index.php?showtopic=80672&st=0&hl=

 

[Aquascaper]

This will explain Cold Cathodes:

Link