molsen187.... watts per gallon =
It's the QUALITY of light not how many watts. Watts only tell you how much ELECTRICITY you're burning and really nothing more. I was pushing 130W into a 10g system (that's in excess of 13 W-P-G) and I still couldn't keep a CLAM or Anemone because it was PC lights....
When you say you're "asking for new lights for Christmas" do you mean new BULBS or do you mean new fixture?
Regardless here is what I suggest:
- A) Use the BEST bulbs you can. Stick with name brand T5's like ATI, UVL Giessemann. Use bulbs HIGH in PAR value to get the most bang from the bulbs.
- B) If you're getting a new fixture consider getting one (or DIYing) one that you can Over-Drive the bulbs. Going from 54w to 80w is a significant increase.
- C) As suggested maintain OPTIMUM water quality. This helps the animal health wise.
- D) While maintaining water QUALITY you want to pay attention to water CLARITY! Tainted, Dingy, dirty water kills light penetration and you'll want every bit you can penetrating to the bottom of the tank.
- E) Be diligent with "Lens/Shield" cleaning. It's ironic how much even a small amount of Salt Spray will kill your light output. Clean it religiously!!