Quote Originally Posted by DonLisk View Post
Well, I picked up a new (slightly damaged) Zoo Med Aquasun 30 inch light fixture and have to head out this morning to find some bulbs. The lamp size is only 20 inch long and calls for a 24watt lamp.

I found some that have a 4100K light spectrum at 24watt HO.
Hopefully these will be enough for the plants. I see the aquatic plant version from Zoo Med is a 5K spectrum and can get from eBay at 8 bucks each plus shipping.

Since we ahve the reptile show tomorrow, I'll grab these cheaper ones today.... in case the ballast or something is wrong with the fixture, and if the fixture works correctly I'll look at the show for better lamps.

I talked with Black Jungle and was informed that the 4100K should be fine since its more wattage than spectrum I should be looking for. True?
Don, thanks for the info. I'm looking forward to seeing what you will pick up at the show tomorrow, and the information you will gather. When I wrote that thread, I researched aquarium and gardening forums, and the information is conflicted. The spectrum seemed to have been the most important factor, but some used lower wattage, and some others used higher voltage (26w). The plants in my 29G are under two Repti Glo 13w 2.0. And they are doing beautifully. I wouldn't change that even if someone would tell me other wise just because it works for them. I have 2 Repti Glo 13w 2.0 on top of my 50G and it doesn't look sufficient, so I purchased a "Glo" T5HO unit and will be putting some tubes on that one soon enough.

Funny enough, these bulbs only start at 24W...! That might be conclusive with what you were saying, Don.