Another Light Question

[rommel39]

I have a 20 gallon hex tank and I am trying to get my hornwort to flurish in my tank. I have small bulb, only 14" or 15" inches, anyhow I have been using the bulb that came with the tank and that was 2 1/2 years ago, my question is should I get another bulb for the tank and if so what kind should I get. I plan to stop by Petsmart tomorrow so please let me know. Thanks in advance!!!

 

[R0UNDEYEZ]

well, you didn't give any info about the wattage of the bulb, but if its the one that came with your aquarium when you bought it, its pretty likely it isn't really intended for growing plants.. just lighting up the tank to view your fish.
I would get a new light If it was me.
I don't know much about specific plants requirements, so I don't have any advice about specific models you should buy however..

 

[Lotus]

Yes, most fluorescent bulbs should be changed every 6 months on a planted tank to ensure the best spectrum and intensity from the bulb.

 

[rommel39]

Yeah, it's a 14watt bulb and I've already checked and they do not make a higher wattage bulb for that size. I know that fluorescent bulbs dim with time and that you should replace them because they burn out totally, and is there any particular specturm of color I should be looking for.

 

[R0UNDEYEZ]

The bulb I have in my 10g is daylight range and its rated around 5k. I don't know the exact rating since I'm not home right now though.. but i would look for something around 5k if it was me.
Hope that helps

 

[Lotus]

The usual "plant" spectrum bulb is around 6700K, but anything between 5000K and 10000K will work for the plants. Most of the "freshwater" or "plant" lights at the fish store will be fine.

 

[rommel39]

Thanks for the advice, I'll heading to the store tomorrow.