Blacklights vs. actinic

[catweh00]

Will blacklights damage fish in any way? i just bought a blacknight 48" strip, and i can switch out the light, but i was just wondering this? Thanks

 

[Anonymous]

Probably not, but why would you want to waste 40W of energy on the strip, and get nothing from it other than that ... halloween look?

 

[ricky1414]

i beg to differ, i believe that the black light would transmit harmful uv rays which could injure your tank inhabitants. i don't think it would be a good idea.

 

[Anonymous]

Most black light are not the short-wavelength UV that is dangerous to eyes. Many people waste their money and time on it, but I guess it is not very useful, and most would recommand the disuse of it.

 

[catweh00]

Well, i really dont think it was a "waste of money." C'mon, the whole hood was 2x40watt with 2 black light bulbs for $17.99 at walmart. Thats not a waste of money, all i have to do is change out the bulbs if it is a problem, but the question is "Is it a problem?" A double strip light at a Petstore with bulbs would be like 80 bucks, at least.

 

[catweh00]

well, let me explain. I dont have a large reef tank anymore, but if i did, i would definitely see it as a waste of money. I changed my 75gallon to a FoWLR and sold my lights, that is why I am buying new ones.

 

[Anonymous]

Yeah, sometimes the LFS just put on too much markups on a "custom" hood. If I were you, I would change out the bulb to get more color out of the LR. Just my 2 cents worth.

 

[catweh00]

Yeah, I think I will change the bulbs. thanks everyone!