75G tank 120w to 190w jump - WOW!

[a little backround]
I'm new here, but have been playing with a planted tank on and off for the past 10 years or so. For a long time, I simply had a single T12 40w fixture and a dual T12 80w total fixture on top of the tank. Plants did well, but over time, I'd lose them - especially after my CO2 regulator started leaking and I didn't feel like getting a new one.

I recently moved, and got re-energized about the tank, so I completely re-did it, and started over with everything new (except 3 fish). Eco-Complete substrate, new CO2 regulator, new plants, driftwood, etc. (bought a "deluxe kit plant & driftwood bundle" from aquariumdriftwood.com). Things went well, but my swords were getting brown leaves as they grew larger, etc.

I retrofitted my single 40W T12 tube over to a AH Supply dual 55w setup. WOW! What a difference! Within an hour of turning on the new light, many of my plants were pearling. Now, a week later, all my swords are healthy again, and things are growing like mad. I always knew I was a bit low on light, but I'm amazed at the difference the extra 70w of light made.

Just thought I'd share my story for those who are having similar issues.

Here is a picture of the tank as it is today:



Curt Shambeau - Oconomowoc, WI

Thanks everyone. I'm very happy with the tank as well - especially now.

As a FYI Mgamer, they weren't "shop lights" but rather All Glass Aquarium lights. The single tube fixture had a pretty good reflector in it, albiet a bit cramped, but yes, the AH Supply lights do get more of the light into the tank with that nice reflector they supply. I'm very impressed thus far.

I bought some fairly cheap bulbs (Eiko 6500k) to go with it, but they have been working fantastic. I've also got some different bulbs, which I'm going to compare. They are OSRAM Sylvania model number 20725, which are full spectrum 5400k. Don't know if I'll see a difference or not, but at least I'll have some spare bulbs around.

Have you had good luck with those particular bulbs? I've always tried to keep my color temp between 5000k and 6500k. I've never tried anything higher. I've heard you can use up to 10k bulbs - but not sure what they would look like, or rather, what the tank would look like with them in there.

I'll see how my plans keep doing with what I have, but if you have any insights, please let me know.