What lighting to use?

[cybergoldfish]

Hi, I'm planning a heavily planted tank (roughly 112 litres, about 24.8 UK gallons/29 US gallons) and I have absolutely no idea what kind of lighting to use. From what I've been able to find out, I think that one of these lights would be most suitable:

Zoo Med Flora Sun Flourescent Bulb (8500K - 17 watts)

Coralife Nutri Grow Plant Lamp (6700K - 20 watts)

If I had 4 lights on the aquarium, then that would equate to about 3.2 UK watts per gallon (presuming the lights are 20 watts). Would this be suitable? Is the Kelvin rating okay for plants? Should I use a 'moonlight' (does this mean actinic?) for the mornings and evenings - would that benefit the fish and viewing?

Sorry for all the questions and thanks for any responses.

 

[rdd1952]

What kind of plants do you have? Some plants are fine with 1 watt per gallon where others need at least 3 wpg. As a general rule, power compac lights are much better for planted tanks as it is impossible to get much more than maybe 1 to 1.5 wpg with flourescents.

 

[George Farmer]

I would avoid the 8500K and stick with the 6700K, these are ideal. Also avoid "moonlight" tubes or any marine type lighting - the high-blue light content encourages algae.

Bear in mind you will need CO2 injection with that much light. Read my algae article to understand more about having a balanced system.

http/www.fishforums.net/index.php?showtopic=87889

You could use DIY CO2 or a couple of Nutrafin yeat-based units to do it cheaply.

What substrate are you planning?

You have the basis of a good set-up with that much light. Feel free to any more questions.