Lighting for optimum plant growth?

[solidsnkhed]

I have a 40 gal planted tank, with java ferns, water onion, and aponogeton rigidfolius....should i keep my lighting more moderate to high, than moderate to low? I need a 24" bulb but what wattage should i go with? All opinions or advice is much appreciated, thanks!

 

[oOMO3NOo]

bulbs of the same length and type Normal Output (NO), High Output (HO), Metal Hallide will be the same watts. so go with a bulb thats the same size and type you have just in a kelvin range of 5000 to 10000

 

[Aquafreak]

Java Fern is a low light plant. I have had fantastic luck with the Java Fern in the past with 1-2 watts per gallon. I would go 2 watts per gallon to be on the safe side considering your other selections. 6500-10000 kelvin is a great range for freshwater plants, and I prefer to use both the 6700 and 10000 bulbs. 10000 bulbs seem to give a better "sparkle" in the water... Just my 2 cents.