Joined: Nov 09, 2011 Posts: 182 Location: Kormangala, Bangalore
Status: Offline
Posted: Mon Jul 23, 2012 11:20 am Post subject: [Help] Lighting upgrade
Hi Friends,
I am planing to upgrade the lighting for my tank.
Tank dimensions are 2.5ft X 1.4ft X 1.4ft (30X16X16 inches). - 32 gallon. with pressurized co2. I am dosing macros and micros.
Currently the the lighting provided is 36 watts X 2 PLL (72 watts in total). This makes it 2.25 WPG, (low - medium lit)
I am planing to bump it up so that I can grow some demanding plants like glosso and others. I am considering the following options. Please give your suggestions
1. Increase by another 36 watts. Total = 72(existing) + 36 = 108watts -> 3.375 WPG
2. Increase by another 48 watts. Total = 72(existing) + 48 = 120watts -> 3.75 WPG
3. Increase by another 72 watts. Total = 72(existing) + 72 = 144watts -> 4.5 WPG
Yes it has a reflector, i am not sure what material it is though... the light fixture i have is the usual ones that come for open tanks.(with adjustable brakets)
144 Watts will give you a LSI of 14.80 at full depth and 20.25 at water surface.
120 watts will give you LSi of 12.34 at full depth and 16.88 at water surface.
I have assumed a reflector efficiency of 90%
As you want to grow low carpet plants, adequate illumination at full depth is necessary.
I would advice you to go 144 watts.
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