Is this the right lighting?

[koipondguy2]

Hello,

New to this forum and the hobby. I'm trying to set up a planted tank. I got an aquarium which already came with light fixtures. The guy at the store told me that these light could be used for plants as well. They are three bulbs for about a 50 Gallon aquarium. Will this light work for the plants? I've put in some java fern and swords since the last 1 week but I really can't tell if they are doing alright(I can't see any new growth). This is the image http://imgur.com/jdgGS


The tubes just say ATMAN 8000K 25W, SUPERLIGHT

[sushant]

if you are planning to go with low light plants like swords and java fern then probably you won't have any problem with the current setup.

[SCORPIO]

Height of tank is most crucial factor when we talk about lighting a tank. All other things are secondary. So please also mention the tank dimensions.
Another factor is your plants wish list? Anybody can suggest best light after knowing both the things.

[jack]

+1 with Rajivji

if it is going to be a low light setup then this light should do IMO

[devchitra]

hardy plants anubias, java fern will be ok.

[koipondguy2]

I want to make it a heavily planted tank. Wisteria, Anubias, tiger lotus, banana Lilly etc. the tank dimensions are.

Length- 31", breadth- 15.5", height- 15".

Also, does anybody know any place in gurgaon where I can get the lighting from?

[SCORPIO]

Length- 31", breadth- 15.5", height- 15".

Tank height is only 15 inch. Add some more light. 2 X 2footer T5 will be enough to grow plants successfully.

Also, does anybody know any place in gurgaon where I can get the lighting from?

Wait the response of local hobbyists of Gurgaon. Otherwise you can get any type of light from Bhagirat Place. It is not far from Gurgaon.

[koipondguy2]

Thank you. Does T5 have to be any specific Kelvin? The current one I have are 8000K . Is it right that the best works out to be around 6500K?

[SCORPIO]

Thank you. Does T5 have to be any specific Kelvin? The current one I have are 8000K . Is it right that the best works out to be around 6500K?

Around 6500K lights are best for planted tanks.

[koipondguy2]

Apparantely, I can get Philips T5 bulbs in Gurgaon. This is their specification. The people at the shop also didn't know about how many Ks it was. What is your opinion? Thanks in advance.

Technical specifications
Color rendering index (CRI): 80
Dimmable: No
Fitting/Cap: G5
Lifetime: 15000 hour(s)
Light effect: Cool daylight
Light output: 2480 lumen
Shape: Linear fluorescent tube
Wattage: 28 W