Question about the "footed" lights

[Misty]

I've always had a fish or two that commit jumpicide so I'm guessing these wouldn't be a good idea. Are they mainly used because of plants that overgrow the height of the tank, even though I've seen them on tanks with plastic plants? Unless that's the reason for using them, I can't figure out the benefits.

I think I prefer glass tops over nothing so this is mainly just to ask questions, I guess.

[biggin]

I think they are a product of the rimless reef tanks....

People think they look cool and try to incorporate them into freshwater setups.

I've always had a fish or two that commit jumpicide so I'm guessing these wouldn't be a good idea. Are they mainly used because of plants that overgrow the height of the tank, even though I've seen them on tanks with plastic plants? Unless that's the reason for using them, I can't figure out the benefits.

I think I prefer glass tops over nothing so this is mainly just to ask questions, I guess.

[glostik]

Actually the feet keep condensation from getting in the lights. Also the light can provide more light to the whole tank when raised up above a bit.

[Misty]

Ok, thanks! I can see the light thing but why are they not using tops with these lights, is that just a preference? Seems that would stop the condensation and still allow the light to spread evenly.

[glostik]

The higher up the light is, the more floor space it will cover.

You are supposed to use tops with those light fixtures. But that alone doenst stop condensation. The people at Coralife told me this stuff when I called them for replacement parts.

[fishman76092]

It also helps cool them. The lights with the feet are metal halide and power compact. They are much hotter than standard flour. bulbs.

[AndrewH]

Also, the more "glass" the light has to travel through the leaker it gets. Add on top of that, condensation/dirt on the bottom and you can quickly lower the amount of light getting to the tank.

Also, it allows the plants to flower (some plants have to flower above the water to reproduce) or to have driftwood that extends out of the tank (visual effect).