Best Light To Grow Aquarium Plants
Aquarium plants are an important part of any aquarium setup. They not only add beauty to the aquarium but also help in maintaining the water quality. To ensure the proper growth of aquarium plants, it is important to provide them with adequate light. In this article, we will discuss the best light to grow aquarium plants.
Types of Aquarium Lights
Before we dive into the best light for aquarium plants, let's discuss the different types of aquarium lights available in the market:
1. Incandescent Lights: These are the traditional lights that have been used for aquariums for a long time. They are inexpensive but not very efficient in terms of energy consumption.
2. Fluorescent Lights: These lights are more energy-efficient than incandescent lights and come in different sizes and shapes. They are also available in different spectrums to cater to the needs of different types of aquarium plants.
3. LED Lights: LED lights are the most energy-efficient and long-lasting lights for aquariums. They are available in different spectrums and can be customized to suit the requirements of different types of aquarium plants.
Out of the three types of lights, LED lights are the best for growing aquarium plants. Let's discuss why.
Why LED Lights are the Best for Growing Aquarium Plants?
1. Energy Efficiency: LED lights are the most energy-efficient lights available in the market. They consume less electricity and produce less heat compared to incandescent and fluorescent lights. This makes them ideal for aquariums as they help in maintaining the water temperature.
2. Longevity: LED lights last longer than incandescent and fluorescent lights. They can last up to 50,000 hours, which means you don't have to replace them frequently. This saves you money in the long run.
3. Spectrum: LED lights are available in different spectrums that cater to the needs of different types of aquarium plants. You can customize the spectrum according to the type of plants in your aquarium to ensure proper growth.
Factors to Consider Before Buying LED Lights for Aquarium Plants
Before you buy LED lights for your aquarium plants, there are certain factors you need to consider. These factors include:
1. Intensity: The intensity of the light should be sufficient to penetrate the water and reach the plants. The intensity is measured in PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation) and should be between 20-50 PAR for low-light plants, 50-100 PAR for medium-light plants, and 100-200 PAR for high-light plants.
2. Spectrum: The spectrum of the light should cater to the needs of the plants in your aquarium. Different plants require different spectrums for proper growth.
3. Size and Shape: The size and shape of the light should be suitable for your aquarium setup. You should measure the size of your aquarium and choose the light accordingly.
Top LED Lights for Aquarium Plants
Now that you know why LED lights are the best for growing aquarium plants and the factors to consider before buying them, let's discuss the top LED lights available in the market:
1. Finnex Planted+ 24/7 LED Klc Aquarium Light: This LED light is suitable for low to high-light plants and comes with a customizable 24/7 lighting cycle.
2. Current USA Satellite Freshwater LED Plus: This LED light is suitable for low to high-light plants and comes with a wireless remote to control the spectrum and intensity of the light.
3. NICREW ClassicLED Aquarium Light: This LED light is suitable for low to medium-light plants and comes with an adjustable bracket to fit different aquarium sizes.