xxnascarxx

I have this 46 gallon. I am going to move all my plants into it once I get the right lighting. The problem is I don't know what to buy....Can someone please help me! The light now is one 36" fluorescent bulb. I read that it is only 30 watts. Is that correct? It is just the light that tank came with.

mathas

What plants do you have?

xxnascarxx

I have some Java Fern, Anubias Lanceolata, and a Cardinal Plant. I was just going to try them out and the guy there told me to get these.

mathas

When you say cardinal plant, you mean this, correct? If so, that's the most light-demanding of the plants listed and would influence my suggestion(s).

Also, do you have any specific budget in mind for the lighting upgrade?

Drew 43920

I had a very similar situation. This is what I did.

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/produc...fm?pcatid=3800

You will need a glass canopy with these lights.

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/produc...m?pcatid=3790&

This should give you about 60 watts of light.
Double check all info before purchasing.

xxnascarxx

Yes, I do mean that. My dad does not want to spend a whole lot on it, but I said that I will pay for it so there isn't really a range. I would just like to know what the best option is for lighting.

xxnascarxx

I have a glass canopy. It came with one. That was what I was thinking about doing, but I live like a hour away from a really good fish place. (if you find the right people) But that would be another option. Would 60 watts be enough for the tank?

mathas

"Best" is a remarkably subjective word Ask 10 people, you'll probably get at least 7 different answers.

If I were in your shoes, I would purchase a T5HO fixture from Catalina (http://www.catalinaaquarium.com/prod...oducts_id=1416). It's only about $25 more than the fixture Drew linked to, but supports more efficient bulbs (T5 vs. T8/10/12) and has substantially better reflectors.

78W of well-reflected light should be plenty for the plants you have. Just make sure that if you go this route, you note on your order comments that you'd prefer a 6500K bulb instead of the standard actinic they ship with it.

xxnascarxx

Thank you so very much Mathas!
So if I order it I have to tell them to ship it with different bulbs? Just want to make sure so I don't forget anything!

mathas

You don't have to, but I'd recommend it. The page states "2 BULBS are included with this fixture. We will automatically ship two 39 watt bulbs - one 10000K and one Blue Actinic." Actinic lighting tends to be more ideal for marine/reef tanks than it is for freshwater plants. Also from that page, "If you have a planted aquarium & would prefer 6500k bulbs, please tell us in the comments section when you order".

If you're spending money on an upgrade, you might as well choose the best option available.

xxnascarxx

Oh, ok. Thanks again!