This enough light?

E

EvanH

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Dec 25, 2003
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Hi all,

I currently have a 42 gallon hexagon tank. If i have the following lighting, will it be enough to keep some plants alive, and perhaps grow a little?

2x36W AHS 6700K Compact Fluorescent

I also will have on the tank my stock 20 watt lamp w/ a growlight...

Best,
Evan
 
Due to it being a hex tank it will be deeper than wider. This means a loss of light by the time it reaches the bottom. But that is still plenty of light to grow many different plants. They may not grow very fast but they will grow. Obviously things like anbius and crypts and java fern will grow well. And floating plants will grow great. I guess it all depends on what sort of look you are going for. Anything specific? Or just live plants? Either way is cool.
 
I'm looking to use some anachris, cabomba, banana plant, and some type of carpet.. i've got anachris in there w/ a crappy 15W, and its growing like crazy! hopefully my new lights will help me out some...

can you recommend a carpet plant that will grow under my new light conditions?
 
The only one that I have ever found at my LFS's is java moss. Super easy to grow and needs little care other than a trimming. Works well in lower light conditons. Carpet planst for your tank will be a little harder to grow due to the light not being able to fully penetrate that far down but the moss doesn't care.
 
When you get those ahs lights I think you will be able to have a nice carpet of dwarf sag. It will probably grow to be around 3 - 4" high and form a dense layer. It has done that in my 20 gallon with normal fluorescents (2 bulbs) and is growing in my other tank with way less than 1 wpg, just not forming a nice carpet.

It grows fast and will be even thicker if you get some gravel ferts to put underneath it. You can use Jobe's for lush Ferns & Palms, it's like a dollar from wal-mart.
 
You will be limited because of the depth of the tank, as mentioned, but there are species that will grow. Java fern usually doesn't get the credit it deserves for being able to create an awesome setup. Its gorgeous when its done right:)

BTW, are you planning on using a nutrient rich substrate?
 
Yeah, java fern can grow really big and full. I have a 10 gallon tank with just a sword and lots of java ferns. Veyr nice broad leaf setup.
 
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