Lighting on a Low Tech 55

[BichirAddict]

I need more light on my 55 I wanted to know if I add another of the same fixture giving 2 wpg would be enough.
Coralife T5 2x28 Watts is the fixture.

[SpeedEuphoria]

From what I've read, w/o CO2(normally meaning low tech), you want ~2wpg of T5 with good reflectors.

So adding another fixture sounds perfect

[lauraleellbp]

If you don't want to add CO2 to the tank, then I'd stick with your current fixture.

If you DO, then 2 fixtures would be an option.

I'm running the same fixture (36") over my 46gal, and it's great for a low-light setup.

[BichirAddict]

The plants I want are
Java Fern and Moss. Amazon Sword, Jungle Vallisneria, hairgrass.
Is the the current amount enough for these or would adding the other be enough.

[Brilliant]

Id add another one. Watts per gallon is useless plus that fixture is not providing enough light coverage for the tank. Two will be ideal.

[lauraleellbp]

Originally Posted by BichirAddict

The plants I want are
Java Fern and Moss. Amazon Sword, Jungle Vallisneria, hairgrass.
Is the the current amount enough for these or would adding the other be enough.

Everything but the hairgrass should do very well in low light.

If you go with 2 fixtures, IMO you'll want to add some fast-growing stems into the plant list to help with balancing out lighting and nutrients. Especially during the startup phase.

[SpeedEuphoria]

Also a good idea would be to start the new fixture off slowly, like just for a 2hr noon burst. Then slowly over a month or 2 keep adding to it till you get them both on for the full period.

[BichirAddict]

Okay I will take the ideal of hairgrass and will add another fixture to it.