55G Light FIxture

Dopehand · Feb 22, 2010

I'm going to purchase a light fixture for my 55 gallon tank, but I don't really know very much about what sort of lighting I ought to get. I have a couple Ideas:

http://www.thatpetplace.com/pet/group/1392/product.web

http://www.thatpetplace.com/pet/group/7011/product.web

However, though these look like they'll be enough to me, I'd love to get input from you more seasoned planted tank enthusiasts. Thank you in advance for your help.:bowing:

Gbbudd · Feb 22, 2010

what do you plan to grow java ferns or rotala macandra and are you going to do co2 ferts ?

Dopehand · Feb 23, 2010

I have ludwigia, hygro, etc. and light ferts. I'll probably have some java fern in there as well.

I've done DIY Co2 in the past, and would do it again if I needed to.

Nue · Feb 23, 2010

Those lights are a bit powerful, you would probably need to add Co2 to out compete with algae.

Dopehand · Feb 23, 2010

It looked like it added up to roughly 2 watts per gallon, which is good for a wide assortment of plants, right? I have no problem with adding co2.

Nue · Feb 23, 2010

You will need pressurized co2 for that size of tank. Or you would have to have a lot of 2 liters of co2 going, at least 4. Its a pain, ive done it. That's when i broke down and got pressurized. But if you can supply the co2 and fert's that light is plenty, you wouldn't need any more.

Dopehand · Feb 23, 2010

I've got a paintball tank, do you think I could do sufficient C02 with that or would I need to get a bigger one?

fishorama · Feb 23, 2010

I just got this http://www.fosterandsmithaquatics.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=16770 I don't have CO2 or algae (yet, lol)

JimL · Feb 23, 2010

I recently bought a "Nova Extreme 48" x 8" Saltwater; T5, 216 watt (4x52) It's a lot of light even on my 80 gallon. It's going to take some time to get photo time down to where I'm growing more plants than algae. But for the most part I like it.

xVitox · Feb 23, 2010

Id go with the more powerful one...and then get the paintball co2 set up That Pet Place sells

That is if money is not the determining factor

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55G Light FIxture

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