LED Lighting?

[VictoriaLeigh]

I have a Fluval EBI that should be arriving today. It comes with a 13 watt compact fluorescent light. I'm thinking about replacing it with an LED that will produce better light for med to high light plants.

But I have no idea what I should be looking for as far as a suitable LED. I'm not a great DIYer so something already made for aquariums or something that at least doesn't really need to be modified would be my best bet.

The Fluval EBI is 8 gallons. I would like to grow plants like hairgrass and possibly dwarf baby tears (if they can grow without CO2)

[shrimpNewbie]

I wouldn't say best untill they have been around longer. I love LEDs however I can't say they're the best plant grow lights. I only say this because as a hydro lover halides are impressive when it comes to veggies and small fruit

[Hoppy]

Here is one LED light that looks ideal for that tank, if suspended about a foot above the top of the tank, http://aquariumdigest.wordpress.com/...stomer-review/

[acitydweller]

LED quality still varies quite a bit. I've purchased a few sets for my refugium, many of which had two dozen leds or more but produced really dim light, not being able to support much more than mosses.

I think the 13W power compact should be sufficient for most plants.

A step up from this lamp would be this:



it comes in several colors. i have this 26Watt lamp with the 6500k bulb and it is considered high light over my 4 gallon Aqueon Evolve tank. The wattage and color (kelvin) rating should be something you need to look for in a planted tank light.

good luck.

[Gomer]

If you want to semi DIY, this has some potential.
http://www.ledgroupbuy.com/makersled...ssional-grade/

[nokturnalkid]

How about the finnex 12" fuge ray? According to their own par readings, you get 25par at 12". Low/med light should be just about right for that tank without co2. Also, for that price($35.99), you could always get 2 fixtures if you wanted more light.