should i buy or change?

[gregorsamsa]

Currently for my 2ft setup, im using 2x15watts fluro tubes. However previous postins i seen and personally experience that it isnt enough for it to "pearl".

Guys, do you think i should buy one more fluro tube or change my existing ones to "plant light" ? I saw these "plant light" 1pc $11 at clementi, i wonder what is it and whats the difference? also, i know that for plants, you only need the red spectrum of light more importantly, but does it have side effect on the fish?

pls help> thank you

[budak]

one thing first: pearling is not necessarily a sign of good plant growth... just that the water is saturated with oxygen... you can have healthy plants without evident pearling.

but generally, to get effects like riccia pearling, high light, good Co2 and adequate fertilisation is needed. Lighting level should be at least 2.5 watts per gallon, and CO2 levels 25 mg/l, and regular dosing of NO3, PO4, K and traces provided.

Read the "New to Planted Tank" article in the Planted forum for some initial tips, and then the "Articles on Dosing" in the Aquatic FAQ for basic information on fert and Co2.... To measure CO2 levels, you need to test for your water's KH and pH, and use the AQ calculator (see main AQ page).

Usually, folks use light tubes with a K (colour temperature) rating of between 6000 and 8000K. Don't bother with what names (like plant lights) they use for the brand - just look at the K. and of course the wattage. Don't worry about the fish.

The Equipment forum has plenty of past threads on different light options (PL tubes, FL tubes etc)..... if it's convenient, you can go to good lfs like Eco-Culture, NA Nature Aquarium, Petmart, Far East Aquatics etc.... to see the different light sets available and find one most suitable for your needs.

Finally, take two panadols and call me in the morning..... it must be hard being a humanoid beetle...

[gregorsamsa]

oh yeah i remember.

i coloured my water too, meaning to say that it has the brackish colour. Does the light remain equally effective? So far i havent seen posting on lighting effects on brackish planted tanks. Do help./ Thanks you

[budak]

Brackish water means somewhat salty water.... it does not refer to the colour. As far I as know, there are no such thing as brakish water planted tanks (unless you plant mangroves)......why on earth are you coloring your water? If you don't understand why you are doing something, I think it's wiser not to do it at all.... anyway, do read up on the threads I noted above.... others must take now.....

[gregorsamsa]

paiseh,

i think what i really mean is like dark like some of those people who acidify their water with either chemical or the K leaf and something. Its for those discus tank. Sorry for the wrong term used.