choosing the right lighting for a 100-gallon planted tank

[Lunkeroonie]

Hi, I've got a 4x2x2 tank with a built-in sump and I'm looking to turn it into a proper planted tank. I'd love some help with that.

I've got a bunch of Crypts in there and they're doing well, no surprise there. I love these plants and want to keep them. I've also got some Vallis towards the back and sides, but they're struggling under the current lighting. I've just added three red Lotus bulbs, hoping they'll grow up the back wall and provide some cover with their big leaves - will they get big enough to do that in a 2ft high tank? I've also got some Lucky bamboo growing out the back, submerged in the sump and then growing up out of the water.

My main issue is lighting - I'm using an old but powerful LED Marine light, running it at 30% power. I don't think the plants are thriving, so I'd like to replace it with some affordable LED lights for planted aquariums. Any suggestions?

My current plants are strong enough to handle the toughest Coflakes, but they'd probably destroy more delicate plants if left at full power. I'm running them on a daylight cycle over 12 hours, never getting beyond 30% power. It's the blue and red spectrum I'm worried about.

Any help would be appreciated, I'll try to get some pics up now.

Thanks, Vinny

[techy]

In my opinion, T5s are the way to go for a planted tank - you can grab a few T5 ballasts, whip up a lid, and you're golden. The growth is insane, but be prepared to add CO2 and ferts to keep up with the high light output.

I've found that cheap tropical LEDs are basically non-existent - some might claim they work, but trust me, they don't. If you want something that actually delivers, you're looking at a pretty penny - $400+ for decent LEDs. If you're not willing to shell out the cash, T5s are your best bet.

[Lunkeroonie]

Thanks for the advice, I think those high-end LEDs are out of the question for me, I mean I spent a small fortune on my current marine lights and that didn't exactly go down well. I'm not sure my wife would appreciate me splashing out again. The T5s are definitely worth a look though, cheers for the suggestion.

[techy]

I'd say go for T5 ballasts, they're actually pretty affordable. You can just get the bulbs and drill them into a wooden board, then just place it over the tank. That way, you'll have a solid setup without breaking the bank.