Is a 10000k bulb ok for a planted tank

[tommyk]

Hi I have a 40w 10000k fluorescent bulb over my tank,
Will this be classed as a low light tank. Also is the 10000 k bulb ok for plants.
My tank is 48" x12" by 18" deep.

Should I add more light???

 

[Coursair]

A 10,000K bulb is for Saltwater. It will look too blue for a planted tank. And 40watts for a 38g (?) tank is lowlight. Tho because your tank isn't super tall that will help.

I prefer near 6,500K for planted tanks.

You should get a better fixture or at least swap the bulb out.

Others can chime in with better info.

I like at least 2 watts per gallon using the old school methods.

Newer stronger lights use different measures.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[tommyk]

Thank you for advice. I had a regular 36 watt fluorescent 4000k I think, over it and the girl in LFS told me this would be better. It does have a blue tint to it but I don't mind it. Will plants still grow in it.

Could I put the 4000k bulb with it? Would this make any difference?

I also have an interpet 18watt compact t5 beauty light. Could I put this with it?

Sorry for all the questions I'm a complete novice with lighting and there is a lot of confusing info on the web.

I have no idea about k values or how they are effected when you add different bulbs with different values. ( are they averaged)

Sorry again for all the questions and thanks for your help.