ok got my new tank todayand i was doing some measuring against my light and how far my hood lifts out and such and i found i can put my fluorescent light on peg board to help me measure.
then i decided to see how much light the 24" fixture i have would put out over a 36" tank.
here is the light off:

on:

does it look like to you it is putting enough light into the tank? it is 24" holds 2 bulbs, 5000K, and 90 CRI. also once i make the canopy more light should be directed into the tank, i think.
i finally found some 36" 5000K with 90 CRIs on the net. but i would prefere not to have to order them and pay shipping every time. this this will do it or just buy a 36" strip and be on the safe side?

