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45g lighting suggestions wanted

Discussion in 'Aquatic Plants & Planted Tanks' started by unicyclemike, Jun 9, 2009.

  1. unicyclemike

    unicyclemike Thread Starter New Member

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    I have a 45 gallon tank I want to turn into a planted tank. I'm not sure what light to get or how many watts. The tank is 36x12x24(LxWxH). I am willing to spend $100 - $200 on the light.
     
    unicyclemike, Jun 9, 2009
    #1
  2. MOD_Dawn

    MOD_Dawn Active Member

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    MOD_Dawn, Jun 10, 2009
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  3. unicyclemike

    unicyclemike Thread Starter New Member

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    The first one is what I have been looking at. I have been looking at moderate light plants. I didn't know if I would need the 96w (2.1wpg) or the double 192w (4.2wpg) because the tank in 24 inches tall.

    Mike
     
    unicyclemike, Jun 10, 2009
    #3
  4. MOD_Dawn

    MOD_Dawn Active Member

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    I would say the 90w should do the trick, but double check.
    Imo the 4.2 would be algae haven being that would be on the HIGH end.

    I run 2.88wpg on my 90 and i can grow moderates without issue...and a few high ones too and it's also 24" high.

    I had the coralife > http://www.bigalsonline.com/StoreCa...-18369##0##8&query=260watt+48&hits=12&offset=

    BUT the fans went on it in less than 6 months so I swapped it out for a cheaper catalina version I scored on Ebay. Catalina's didn't have the fans or the plexi-glass that shields the bulbs.
     
    MOD_Dawn, Jun 11, 2009
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  5. unicyclemike

    unicyclemike Thread Starter New Member

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    I just got the 96w in the mail yesterday. Now all I need is substrate and plants.
     
    unicyclemike, Jul 5, 2009
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  6. MOD_Dawn

    MOD_Dawn Active Member

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    Eco-Complete for substrate and start with crypts
     
    MOD_Dawn, Jul 5, 2009
    #6