Light advice, please!

[Jetstorm369]

Hey guys, I have a 29g tank that's 16 inches deep. I've been looking at multiple light fixtures, and so far I have my eyes on the Finnex Planted +. I'm going to be starting a carpet (most likely HC), so I'll have to consider the depth of the tank, and I'm not exactly sure if the Planted + will suffice. Any input will be greatly appreciated, thanks!

 

[Chesmok]

I think for HC a good fertilizing substrate and CO2 injection is more important than super high light...but I may be wrong...


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[Fresh2o]

I believe HC needs all three (high lighting, ferts, CO2) to do well.
The planted+ PAR values are published somewhere on this forum. If I can locate them I will post it here. This will be helpful for determining your answer.


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[Jetstorm369]

I believe HC needs all three (high lighting, ferts, CO2) to do well.
The planted+ PAR values are published somewhere on this forum. If I can locate them I will post it here. This will be helpful for determining your answer.


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Are you referring to this post?

Finnex RAY II & FugeRAY PAR Data

They don't have the PAR values for the Planted +, but I would imagine it's slightly above the Fugeray and slightly below the Ray2. However, the values mean nothing to me, as I am not as adept at lights as I would want to be I guess the question to be asked is: What PAR value would be sufficient for a 16 inch deep tank? Thanks for your help!

 

[Jetstorm369]

I believe HC needs all three (high lighting, ferts, CO2) to do well.
The planted+ PAR values are published somewhere on this forum. If I can locate them I will post it here. This will be helpful for determining your answer.


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I also found this:

PAR Data & mini review: Finnex Planted+ & AHS LED's - Lighting - Aquatic Plant Central

 

[azmodan]

I'm running a planted+ on my 29g and would agree that the par probably falls a bit below the ray2. I've never tried HC in it but if I were to guess I'd say it might be a little on the weaker side for it, although as already mentioned the co2 and ferts would play a significant role in deciding that. Have you considered Monte Carlo as an alternative to HC? Could be a good option if you go with the planted+ as I had no problem getting it to carpet on both EcoComplete and aquasoil. If your goal is HC though a better option might be to look at an Exocotic e-series (much more powerful and also dimmable, although light distribution is a little acute) or hold out for one the new lights Finnex is supposedly launching in the next few months. You could also experiment with one planted+ and if necessary double up later down the line.


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