20watts enough?

[mes1234]

So I just bought a used 45 gallon long tank and came with it was a light. I just took the bulb out today to find out how many watts it was. My question is that if I want to grow any plants, would 20 watts be enough. Also, if it wasnt enough, could I put a high wattage bulb into this plastic light without being a fire hazard.

 

[dtd87]

Possibly VERY LOW light plants, I've had success with java moss and java ferns with lighting similar to that.

 

[Michwol42795]

Yah, Java moss and Java ferns.

 

[odinthejd]

I suggest 2watts per gallon

 

[Mgamer20o0]

adding a higher watt bulb wont do anything. if you want more light you will need a new fixture or retrofit it.
http://www.fishneedit.com/

or look at the thread in the diy section about adding the cfl bulbs.

 

[Michwol42795]

I suggest 2watts per gallon

That would be better, but they can live in 20 watts in my opinion.

 

[jbradt]

It really depends on the type of plants you want to grow. If you want a low-light setup, I would recommend 1.5-2 wpg. If you go higher than that, you'll want to start considering CO2 and ferts.

 

[mikeb210]

Java moss might not die, but I doubt you'd see much growth.

 

[Michwol42795]

Java moss might not die, but I doubt you'd see much growth.

Exactly.

 

[Turbosaurus]

That's not even remotely enough light.You can keep java moss alive in the dark for 3 weeks as long as it doesn't dry out, but it won't grow. This is about the same thing.