lighting question for someone who read the sticky.

[velanarris]

Lumens per gallon is more accurate than watts per gallon as Lumens(intensity) will take the lighting type into account more accurately than watts(energy).

The best number to know would be your PAR.

 

[chonhzilla]

Lumens per gallon is more accurate than watts per gallon as Lumens(intensity) will take the lighting type into account more accurately than watts(energy).

The best number to know would be your PAR.

So if I used two 36" t5's putting at 10,000k I'd be better off than where I am at now correct? Rather than using a 24" CPF dual fixture at 6700k each.

 

[velanarris]

Your tank depth is 16 inch so your most effective PAR(Photosynthetically Active Radiation), and by extension PUR(Photosynthetically Usable Radiation), will be found at 6400-6700k.

As for Lumens per gallon, you want to step back one and determine your Lumens per watt first as that will establish how effective your light is for the amount of energy consumed. From there you establish Lumens per gallon via watts per gallon and between that and PAR you will receive the best choice for aquatic plants.


If you want to get really fancy, post your hardness and we can get so specific that you'll have to grow your hair long, gain 150 pounds, and never leave your mom's basement.

 

[chonhzilla]

If you want to get really fancy, post your hardness and we can get so specific that you'll have to grow your hair long, gain 150 pounds, and never leave your mom's basement.

LOL it got a test but but not one for GH. I get what you are saying.

 

[velanarris]

LOL it got a test but but not one for GH. I get what you are saying.

As long as you don't go by watts per gallon and you do the basic math (which you did) you really can't go wrong. Now if you start attempting aquaculture, well, then you'll have to go further.