Converting 65 Gallon to planted. Help.

F

FGS_Flying_High

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Apr 21, 2010
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Ontario, Canada
www.pawzitivelypolite.com
Hi everyone,

So, I've decided to make my 65 gallon into a real planted tank. First order of business is a new light fixture. You guys have already suggested a T-5 high output so I'm wondering which of the following two you think would be better.

http://www.bigalsonline.com/BigAlsC...560107/cl0/156w4x39whot54lamplightingsystem36

Or

http://www.bigalsonline.com/BigAlsCA/ctl3684/cp57011/si4294970/cl0/aqualighthot5duallampfixture36

I'm hoping to get one of the plant packages from azgardens.com or some thing similar from someone else. I'm still waiting to hear if they can ship to Canada. I'll admit to liking these packages ....

Ideas, input etc are more than welcome.

Thanks!
 
Chrisinator said:
With t5-ho, you are going to need a pressurized Co2 setup to combat algae.
Click to expand...
not at all, chris. i have a 36" 2 X 39 watt t5ho fixture running 1 X 10000k & 1 X 6700k on a 36" X 18" footprint 50 gallon w/o carbon at all (no excel, gluteraldehyde, florin axis, diy, pressurized... nothing) and everything's been fine for quite some time.

if you're referring to the 4 bulb unit then i'd have to agree.
 
i'd think the general consensus is going to be either 2 bulbs or a 3 bulb fixture with 2 switches/cords from catalina aquariums. there are 2 bulb fixtures at that size that are cheaper, but not by much. i like my current nova extreme, personally. got it at drs foster and smith with a spare set of bulbs and something little shipped for less than $120 total.

my fault, chris... i got through that spiel and realized that's what you had to have meant.
 
check bobstropicalplants.com
check with msjnkzd (seller here in the marketplace)
start wtb threads here, on apc, on plantedtank.net, etc.

i'm 99.99% sure you can get a much better deal elsewhere.

check through the threads started by user safaditm3 for more info and some plants you could add to that list for an asian themed tank.
 
:iagree: Please don't spend 150 on plants. Especially if it is your first set up. You can find many plant deals, the same plants that are in this package you want for much cheaper, and usually you can get more. As for the lights, IMO I would go with the 4 light fixture on 2 switches. This way you leave your options open. You can run 2 lamps if you like, or 4 if required. You can also control photoperiods. I noticed a huge difference in my plants when I did a 'selestial' I have 2 lamps kick on for an hour then all 4 come on for the next 6 hours and finally 2 are only on for the last hour. For a total of 8 hours. Now that can all change according to your needs. I like that you are adding co2 also :thumbsup: I hope this helps some.

BTW I personally love catalinaaquariums fixtures. Call them. tell them what you need or want and he will set you up and maybe even a better deal than what is listed on the webpage. But thats just my 2 cents
 
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