[rnakas]

I was wondering what you guys and gals think of split photo periods maybe 5hrs on 2hrs break then 5hrs on again? Trying to keep the algae from taking over. I read it in a book they called it siesta period.

 

[Wasserpest]

Some swear by it, I think there are better ways to keep algae at bay.

Discussion for ex here: http://www.plantedtank.net/forums/lighting/8938-split-photo-period.html

 

[lillou]

Instead of the siesta period stagger the startup of the lights.

1 bulb comes on at 8 am goes off at 3 PM
2 bulb comes on at 12 pm and goes off at 6pm

This give you a 3 hour burst just like in nature.
That is if you can control the bulbs seperately.

Is the book you are referring to the plant encyclopedia?

Lou

 

[rnakas]

Is it called "Encyclopedia of aquarium plants " by Peter Hiscock.
It's a pretty good book.

 

[Rex Grigg]

It's a decent book. It's been a while since I looked at it but as I recall there are several mistakes in the book.

And it's pretty far behind the times. This hobby has evolved quite a bit in the past couple of years.

 

[rnakas]

I'm going to try one bulb 9am to 5pm = 8hrs The other bulb 12pm to 8pm= 8hrs with a 5hr period with both bulbs on. Do you think this would be ok?

 

[Wasserpest]

Not sure what bulbs/wattage you are running, but that sounds good to me. I start my lights ~10am running through 10pm, with the main lights on 10:30 - 9:00.

In your sig you mention 192W for a 30gal tank. I think that's a bit much.

 

[rnakas]

96watts x 2 Do you think I should cut back the time more?