![]() ![]() The objective here is to understand light distribution and intensity, as a function of the different reflectors, on the surface of the tank. In this article we report on the analysis of several commercial reflectors designed for mogul lamps and for use in a canopy. UV protective glass, lenses, housing etc.). Luminaries – completely assembled lighting fixtures with integrated reflectors (and other accessories, e.g.DIY or stand alone type – designed for assembly into an existing aquarium hood.Reflectors available in the hobby fall into two distinct categories: The ideal scenario is all light emitted by the source is re-directed by the reflector profile. Half the light emanating from a lamp (in horizontal orientation) is in the upward direction, and a reflector helps direct this light downwards to the area where it is needed. Reflectors should be an integral part of any lighting system considered by the aquarist, since they play a vital role in establishing the intensity and light distribution over the aquarium. Reflectors are used to collect and re-direct light. Since light is emitted in all directions (although not equally in all directions for a Metal Halide lamp), what is important is not what is emitted but what is collected and re-directed to the surface of interest. However, using a higher output light source will not always result in higher optical output on the area of concern (in our case the surface of the water in the aquarium). One obvious way to increase the optical output of the light source is to use a bigger lamp. For our purpose here, all references to light intensity refer to PPFD. Intensity of light is measured as Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density (PPFD) or Photosynthetically Available Radiation (PAR), and units used are μmol/sec/m2. For a detailed overview of light measurements see (References 1-7). Light intensity for our purpose is the intensity of light available for photosynthesis (in the 400-700 nm wavelengths). In addition to spectral quality, the intensity of light is also important. Some earlier work has focused on determining the spectral characteristics of the various metal halide lamps, in an effort to provide data that could be useful to match the needs of the corals to the spectral output of the lamps, as well as the aesthetics of the aquarium (References 1-7). The physical aspects of light that are of interest to us are 1) Spectral Quality and 2) Intensity. Balancing the needs of corals, costs and aesthetics all come into play when deciding on a lighting system. Clearly from the hobbyist’s perspective finding the most cost effective way to light the tank is often an important concern. In addition to initial cost, light systems are the largest contributor to running costs of aquariums and a large source of unwanted heat. The lighting system of a reef aquarium is one of the most argued about and one of the most expensive components. ![]() Light drives photosynthesis and plays an important role in the overall health of corals. Light plays a vital role in the success of keeping corals in an aquarium. ![]()
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