What's The Most Efiecient Lighting Set Up?

[ipande0]

Hello

I currently have 64W of fluorescent lighting for my 29g planted aquarium, which gives me close to 2.3WPG. I was considering upgrading to something above 3 WPG to imporve my plant growth but wanted to see what the most cost efficient way to do this was? Should I stick to fluorescent, CFL, others I know the upfront cost and the maintenence cost can vary wildly and I would need to consider both. Also I may eventually ugrade to 55gallons so is there a lighting system that I could easily add to as well? Thanks for any insight.

Ian

 

[SuperColey1]

You already have more than enough light for your tank to grow any plants you want. Infact you have too much light not to use pressurised CO2 without getting algae problems.

Its not just light that makes plants grow faster. You could add 10WPG but without ading the CO2 and nutrient needed then it would be of little use.

AC

 

[ipande0]

Thanks for the insight.

Even so what lighting system would you recommend if I do upgrade to a 50 gallon?

 

[SuperColey1]

If you aren't adding pressurised the CO2 you may as well use your current lights on the 50USG if they fit in there OK

AC