1 Filtration – 2 Carbon Dioxide (CO2) – 3 Bright Light – 4 Substrate
Bright Light: Lighting for a planted aquascaped aquarium
The lighting of planted tanks is significantly brighter than the lighting of traditional aquariums. Bright light makes the aquarium look more vibrant and alive. A more brilliant light is needed for the increased growth and color of the plants.
Plant aquariums are characterized by intense lighting. Most people are drawn to modern aquascaping because of the intense lighting and the sight of vibrant plants in them. Dynamic light and fish swimming in clear water make the planted aquarium an authentic art piece for a home or office. This sets it apart from the world of traditional aquariums.
Planted tanks can have too much light. With any amount of bright light, plants will photosynthesize more intensely and thus will require a lot of CO2. Intense lighting is, therefore, only recommended for tanks that operate a high-pressure CO2 system in the aquarium. Without the right amount of CO2, the plants will suffer, and the aquarium will start to have algae when exposed to intense light. Keep in mind that the dual effect of strong lighting and excess nutrients is what triggers algae growth. With an increase in brightness, a proportional amount of CO2 and plant development will be needed to decrease the fight against algae growth without excess ammonia. This is why it is often recommended to reduce the brightness at the start of a new aquarium. Only after the biological equilibrium has been reached and the tank is fully cycled and aged should the light be increased to full brightness. This takes 1 to 2 months. This time can be shortened by using aquaLife Activate, and it is recommended. Use it weekly at the maintenance dose.
Light Control
Using powerful lighting is like driving a fast car. It could get you to your destination more quickly or end in an accident. Intense lighting coupled with organic waste or damaged plants trigger algae spores to bloom, resulting in visible algae in the tank.
However, our plants also require sufficient light to grow well, hence controlling aquarium lighting is a balancing act necessary to achieve continuous success in planted tank algae control.
LIGHT INTENSITY
This is a guide to the appropriate light intensity as measured on the surface of the substrate.
30umols of PAR (photosynthetic active radiation): Low-light plants such as ferns, mosses, Cryptocoryne, Anubias, and Bucephalandra grow well. It is wise to stay in this range if you are growing shade plants exclusively.
- 50umols of PAR will enable you to grow any commercially available aquatic plant (when coupled with optimal CO2 levels). However, this gives little allowance for shading issues in crowded tanks. Most nature-style and Iwagumi-style tanks that do not require high density do well in this range.
- 50 to 150umols of PAR; Colored stems will display better coloration, and carpets spread very fast as light levels increase, at the risk of more algae issues. Tank cleanliness and plant health must be maintained at optimal conditions to prevent run-away algae. Allows for increased planting density for light demanding plants. Most experienced aquarists can do well in this range with regular upkeep.
- 200umols of PAR & above; Marginal gains to plant growth form and coloration start to be outweighed by sizable potential instability of algae outbreaks. It might be helpful to induce stronger coloration in shorter stems close to the substrate and for farming purposes. It should only be used by aquarists experienced in keeping already algae-free tanks.
“ A PAR of 30 at the gravel to 150 at the surface. 80 umols of PAR is good light that will grow most anything.” Jeff Miotke
Lets Talk Lighting by John Tullock
Lighting
Aquarium Lighting
At SevenPorts, we are your trusted source for aquarium lighting products. Our reliable lighting products help to encourage plant growth and provide lighting to bring out color and stimulate aquatic life in your freshwater or saltwater tank. On our website, you’ll find many Full Spectrum LED lighting options available to you.
LED Aquarium Lights & Accessories
Our Full Spectrum LED aquarium lighting products enhance the growth of your aquatic plants and bring out the color and beauty of your coral and fish. In addition to aquarium LED lights, we also stock timers, light clips, and other miscellaneous aquarium lighting accessories you’ll need for the hobby. At SevenPorts, we are committed to fulfilling your lighting needs for your aquarium. Should you have questions about inventory for LED aquarium lights, please contact us and we’ll be happy to help.
Also See https://sevenports.com/2017/09/27/carbon-dioxide-part-three-installing-a-system/
How to measure and determine Carbon dioxide levels in the aquarium.
Regulator Installation and Instructions
CO2 Glassware with Video Hydra Aquatics
We have included frequently asked questions about CO2 including cleaning and choosing diffusers here.
1 Filtration – 2 Carbon Dioxide (CO2) – 3 Bright Light – 4 Substrate