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Hi

After reading the posts on this subject, I'm confused about the lighting that I have on my tank. I have a 42G tall and my LFS advised me to use a 15 watt Power-glo Fluorescent (T8)with a 14,000K rating. By doing the math I have only .357 wpg, which from what I have read is way too low and my K rating is way too high. Does the higher K value compensate for the low wattage and since I have a tall tank the higher K value is required?? Your opinions would be appreciated! Thank you


*Mitch*

Does the higher K value compensate for the low wattage and since I have a tall tank the higher K value is required??

From a website description:
Promotes coral, invertebrate and plant growth. High intensity photosynthetic deep marine spectrum.
Total illumination for living corals, marine algae and freshwater plants.
These bulbs have a higher temperature rating than "white light," which means they produce even more of the blue light waves. They are best suited for marine reef aquariums. Depending on the type of corals in your aquarium, these bulbs rarely need to be supplemented with Actinic bulbs.

I think that the LFS recommended the bulbs to push light to the bottom of your tall tank. If it is to be a planted freshwater tank, I would use low light plants with a couple of medium light plants to test the light. I am afraid that stem plants will undoubtedly become "leggy" as they seek greater levels of light intensity.





__________
"To steal ideas from one person is plagiarism; to steal from many is research."
researched from Steven Wright

Thanks Bob for replying. That's exactly what's been happening to my plants. There is hardly any new growth near the bottom and the plants keep getting taller without any fullness.


*Mitch*

Go to www.tropica.com. Hit the advanced search button near the upper right hand corner. Plug in your tank parameters. This little Easter egg will give you some great suggestions for plants.



__________
"To steal ideas from one person is plagiarism; to steal from many is research."
researched from Steven Wright