[teonguyen]

Hi all !

I have a 42G bow-front using AHS 2 x 55 W and pressurized Co2.I placed the light 3~4 inches above the top of the tank. My question is do i really need the CO2 for this setup? I have placed the order for CO2 and it is not returnable .. I m new to this hobby , and did lot researches before putting up everything together; however, Im still very confused about the use and benefits of lights and CO2.

Thanks

 

[livingword26]

Did you mean 42 gallon? What are the measurements?

 

[teonguyen]

Did you mean 42 gallon? What are the measurements?

Yes it is approx 42 gallon.The measurement is 30.5L X 15.5W x 21H

 

[livingword26]

According to Hoppys Chart, specifically for AH supply lights, you are in the medium light range.

http://www.plantedtank.net/forums/lighting/105774-par-vs-distance-t5-t12-pc.html

I think CO2 would definatley be beneficial for you. But you will need to do some research on EI Fertilizer dosing.

http://www.barrreport.com/showthread.php/62-The-Estimative-Index-of-Dosing-or-No-Need-for-Test-Kits

http://www.aquaticplantcentral.com/forumapc/fertilizing/15225-estimative-index-dosing-guide.html

 

[Hoppy]

If the two bulbs are side by side, you probably have high light, but if they are end to end, you should have low medium light. In either case CO2 will be a very big benefit in that it enables you to grow any plants you want, and grow them fast enough to enjoy watching them. Because of that faster growth the plants will need more NPK and trace elements than they would if you didn't use CO2, so reading up on the fertilizing forum sticky on dosing schemes would be very useful to you.

 

[teonguyen]

Thank Hoppy and livingwood for such infos about the lighting , co2, and ferts

I havent been able to finish setting up the tank, and dont know how the results will be ? I definitely spend lil bit more time to collect more researches as much as i can

Btw i m really happy with the AHS , they are super bright and i placed them side by side in the canopy:icon_smil