Tank lighting question

[Jmenehan2]

I saw this picture and I was concerned because my tank is a 29 gallon. The tank is 18 inches tall with a light fixture that has 4 T5HO's. According to this chart my fixture hung 12 inches above my tank would still be too much light. I really don't want to fry my future plants! Any help from any of you veteran planted tank lovers would be very much appreciated!

 

[Jmenehan2]

The light fixture contains 4 24 inch 24 watt T5HO's***

 

[Fresh2o]

Does the fixture allow you to only run 2 bulbs? If so, you may want to give that a try.

 

[Jmenehan2]

It can, I was just wondering if this correct because I want to be in the3 watt per gallon range without frying my plants. I would rather not have an unpleasant algae outbreak either.

 

[Fresh2o]

Assuming the tank depth is 16-20" with 2 bulbs it appears you can have the bulbs at 4" and be in the high range. If that is not enough you can always add more bulbs.
As an alternative, I have read where some folks will grow floating plants to cut down on the amount of light getting into the tank. Depending on the species it may grow like a weed but can be easily roved as needed. They can make a nice treat for goldfish.