Best Bulb Colour

[Super Dude]

I need a new bulb and don't know what to get! The 18 000k that came with the aquarium is wearing out.

Thanks.

 

[Andeekaii]

From what i have read 6500k is the optimum for plant growth, although different people have sucess with all sorts of lights, right up to 18k. Personally, I am using a Sylvania Grolux (which im guessing is around 3000k as its really pink) and a phillips daylight (6500). You can check my progess here!
What you need to remember is that the colour temperature (6500k etc.) isn't the most important thing. The most important thing is the colour range which the bulb produces. Green plants use a lot of red light during photosynthesis, thus a pinkish light is optimal for plant growth, but not for human aesthetics. I could go into lots of detail but basically, unless your willing to do tonnes of reading just stick with a commonly found bulb such as the Hagen Aqua Glo, which has a lot of red spectrum.

However if you do want to do some reading, post back and i will link you to some useful sites.

Andy

 

[Super Dude]

Sure, why not? I'm off school now so I need something to read.

 

[three-fingers]

From everything I know about plants...the best 'K rating' would depend on what species of plant your trying to grow, and what kind of light it receives in it' main natural environment.

Though I have yet to do a proper experiment (have one planned, but lack space/funds) I suspect at least some plants can adapt to make the most of te light available.

If I was choosing bulbs, I would go for 2 different ones giving a wide as rage as possible, and IMO this gives the best colour reproduction.

Basically, don't worry too much about K rating.

 

[squiggley]

Lighting can be very much a personal preference. Go for something which suits you. It won't make much diffence to the plants growth wise.

Have a look here
http/www.theplantedtank.co.uk/lighting.htm

 

[FishBeast]

So long as my tank doent look red or blue and my plants grow well. I am happy.

 

[aaronnorth]

i ticked 6000- 8000k with my reason being it gives a broad colour spectrum, go to low and your tank will be pink, to high and it will be blue

 

[Andeekaii]

i ticked 6000- 8000k with my reason being it gives a broad colour spectrum, go to low and your tank will be pink, to high and it will be blue

Or use a mix of high and low, and you will get a broad colour spectrum.. perfect!
It really is personal preference though, If you can only use one bulb then 6000k - 8000k is the best choice imo.