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Re:more light necessary?
>>I set up my first *real* planted tank a month ago. I mean *real* because
I
splurged and got a CO2 system. Anyways, it is 30 gal with CO2 and 80 watts
of fluorescent light, kH of 4, dH of 6, 1 bubble CO2/second, 15 drops TMG
every day, 15 drops Kent(R) ProPlant every day, and laterite/sand substrate.
Everything is growing fine, even the glossostigma :) but I'm wondering if it
is worth my while to increase the wattage to between 3-4 watts per gallon?
I am aware that "if it ain't broke don't fix it" which is why I am asking
here first before I go and do it. Will there be any significant advantage,
other than faster growth?<<
If the plants appear healthy,the growth is satisfactory, and you have
achieved a nice equalibrium keeping algae in control, why mess with it? With
brighter light you will get quicker and perhaps more robust growth, but a
sharp increase in light will put more of a demand on the system for CO2 and
nutrients, using up these nutrients faster and making keeping a balance of
the ecco system harder. It could throw everything out of wack for a period
of time causing an algae outbreak. It could be done, but it may require a
longer period of tinkering with everything to get a good balance again.
Robert Paul H
http://www.aquabotanic.com
Salem, OR
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