Downsides to leaving lights on all the time for planted tank?

[krap101]

I was wondering if plants need some "rest" at night, or if they could grow continuously if given nutrients/light. Are there any other side effects besides increased energy usage/changing bulbs more frequently?

 

[FastFly67]

algae bloom...?

 

[fort384]

Krap,

Yes, plants need some time in the dark too. Respiration occurs during darkness... this is how plants use stored metabolic energy created in the plant cells during photosynthesis to create carbon structures for growth. Respiration is critical to healthy tissue creation.

While respiration does occur in concert with photosynthesis during the photoperiod, it kicks into high gear when the lights go out.

This is why your CO2 concentration will go up at night in your tank -- respiration uses stored glucose and oxygen to produce energy, water, and CO2.

 

[krap101]

ic.. ty