can someone translate the code you all use when describing your lighting system?

[goodogcarl]

i bought a bulb called "ultra sun" and that's all i have . . . should i have something else in addition?

 

[gravereaper0]

To start off you're gonna have to provide more info. Tank size, stock, low light or high light setup? And what type of fixture and what's the output of the bulb.

 

[goodogcarl]

i have a 75-gal. tank

4 gouramis
2 rainbow sharks
1 red-tailed shark
4 tetras
3 rainbow bosemanii (sp?)
3 rainbow praecox
5 mystery snails

(i also have four black mollies and two swordtails that i'm returning to the lfs this weekend)

i don't know how i would know whether it's high or low light.

the bulb i bought is 48" long -- one routinely stocked by petco.

 

[gravereaper0]

Is it a planted tank?

 

[goodogcarl]

yes -- the plants seem to be doing really well.

 

[gravereaper0]

Well if you're happy with what you're seeing then keep it at that. The difference between low and high light setup depends on what kind of plants you have.

http://www.plantgeek.net/plantguide_cat.php?category=1

 

[goodogcarl]

thanks for your help . . . the plant guide is very helpful.

 

[jetajockey]

The difference is light intensity and/or tech being used. Most plants can grow in both low and high light, although higher light intensity usually results in more lush and compact growth.
http://www.plantedtank.net/forums/showthread.php?t=184368