What qualifies as "low-tech"?

Light is the primary determinant. Low light is "low tech". High light is "high tech". That's because with high light you need CO2, generally a pressurized CO2 system. And, with high light you need to follow a complete fertilizing schedule. With low light, you generally don't need to fertilize, but at most you fertilize once a week. Of course with light in between you can choose to go "low tech" or "high tech".

Hoppy said:

Light is the primary determinant. Low light is "low tech". High light is "high tech". That's because with high light you need CO2, generally a pressurized CO2 system. And, with high light you need to follow a complete fertilizing schedule. With low light, you generally don't need to fertilize, but at most you fertilize once a week. Of course with light in between you can choose to go "low tech" or "high tech".

Click to expand...

When you say "need" there, are you saying that for reasons other than just algae control?

boringname said:

When you say "need" there, are you saying that for reasons other than just algae control?

Click to expand...

Yes. If you have a tank full of assorted plants, then apply high light with inadequate nutrients, especially CO2, the plants have to compete for that resource. The better competitors will hog the available nutrients, especially CO2, leaving the other plants in poor health or dieing. And, those plants are prime targets for an algae attack.