Another java moss question

[AphexMatt]

Hi all I am returning to the hobby after 2 years w/o a tank and I would like to do a simple Java Moss to driftwood centerpiece in my 5.5G. I have an Auqalight Mini that can hold (2) 9Watt compact fluorescent bulbs. I figure I will have about 25-35 square inches of driftwood covered with the depth being 4 to 7 inches from the moss to the light.

I was hoping to get your recommendations for how many 9W bulbs to run (1 or 2) at what color temp. (6700K or 10000K) and for how long each day? I would like to avoid using CO2 and ferts... I would also like to avoid algae! (I have always had a problem with it)

The tank will be filtered, heated and most likely house a male Betta and shrimp further down the road if I prove to maintain proper water conditions. I have a test kit coming in the mail along with my substrate (black sand fluorite) due to arrive sometime this week.

Thanks for your help, Matt.

[rich311k]

A tank that small I would think both. if it starts getting algae you could shorten lighting period or remove one. I would use one of each color. I use that mix on my tanks and I like the overall color.

[msjinkzd]

Yup, I would start with both and a photoperiod of about 10 hours. I like the 6700k bulbs, but either will do depending on the look you like. The 10k are more white than the 6700k.

[AphexMatt]

Thank you both for your input I think I will mix the light with one 6700K and one 10000K since that is what I have currently. I was reading around the forums that its good to replace fluorescent bulbs regularly even if they still light up they loose some of their spectrum? My compact fluorescent bulbs are about 3 years old but only 1 year of use on them and still light, are they still good to use?

[rich311k]

I change my PC bulbs once a year. I have read in several places the light spectrum shifts as they age. Not entirely sure if that is true or not.