DAlberta Posted April 19, 2006 Report Share Posted April 19, 2006 I have a 6' long (70 gallon) tank and going to put a 4' fluorescent light on it If I use two bulbs will I develop an algae problem? Dave :beer: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Vapor Posted April 19, 2006 Report Share Posted April 19, 2006 I think it would depend more on the condition of the water and how long you leave them on. Also on wattage of the lights. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Milan Posted April 19, 2006 Report Share Posted April 19, 2006 (edited) Hello Dave, Algae blooms are more related to nutrient deficiencies than light intensity. However, indirectly the light plays a significant role by driving the plants metabolism. More light results in higher nutrient uptake, hence deficiencies occur faster, if not followed by proper supplementation. The only nutrient which is known to cause algae if in excess is the ammonia, but this should not be present in an established tank, if your fish load is not too high and the filtration is sufficient. 90% of algae problems in high light tanks are related to the lack of CO2. Lack of NO3 and PO4 are common too. In your case, two 4' fluorescent tubes would give you about 80 watts (or less), which on 70 gallons tank is not considered to be a "high light" condition. Perhaps, 4-6 of such tubes would get you there. Edited April 19, 2006 by Milan Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DAlberta Posted April 19, 2006 Author Report Share Posted April 19, 2006 Thank you very much for your meaningful input Milan You must be interested in molecular or organic chemistry???? Dave Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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