The ideal photo-period, or length of time the aquarium lights are on ranges from eight to 12 hours, depending on the aquarium setup. Generally, 10 hours a day is a good average for most aquariums.If algae is a problem in the tank, a contributing factor is usually too much light. Reducing the time the aquarium lights are on to eight hours, or a bit less if necessary, will help reduce the algae growth. Some fish prefer lower lighting conditions. Many cichlids thrive on less light, as do many species of the tetra family. If the room has good ambient lighting, it's possible to reduce or even eliminate additional aquarium lighting.If there are live plants in the aquarium, the aquarium lighting period should be increased. Plants require as much as 12 hours per day, however, the time will depend on the aquarium setup and species of plants.The biggest obstacle in maintaining uniform aquarium lighting is that owners aren't able to turn the lights on and off at the same time each day. Fortunately, there is an inexpensive and easy way to remedy that problem.

Purchase an inexpensive timer and plug the lighting unit into it. Set the on and off times to obtain the desired period of light, then cross that task off your daily To Do list permanently. Light timers are highly for all aquarium owners.A very important reminder about true aquatic plants: They must be kept wet at all times. If they are even allowed to partially dry when transplanting new clumps, these plants may suffer for weeks, or even die.  Also, do not remove live plants and clean them under running water; this will damage, break or even kill live true aquatic plants. The almost microscopic whitish slime like layer on plants is actually good bacteria, -- the fish eat it from time to time -- and it is part of the nature of the plants, part of what keeps an aquarium in homeostasis.To get the best looks out of your plants, plant them in the substrate and ensure they are well anchored to the bottom of the aquarium.  Planting in thickets (bunches or clumps) are most eye-catching, but don't use too many plants in a thicket or clump.

The plants need room to grow and get full light on all the branches and leaves of the thicket or clump. fish tank on ebayAs long as your fish can swim cleanly around and through your aquarium plants, you are not overcrowding your aquarium with plants.marine fish tank live rockYou can increase the number of plants in your aquarium, if you have proper lighting and water conditions, in one of two ways. large fish tank ornaments ebay(Well, there is a third way -- you can buy more -- but let’s talk about propagating the plants you already have). fish tank gravel priceVallisneria and similar plants send out runners under the substrate, which in turn send up little versions of themselves through the substrate, next to the parent plant. cheap 5 foot fish tanks

These runners can be cut apart and each little plant is a new plant unto itself that can be transplanted elsewhere or left to grow where it sprouted.cheap fish tank wood When you introduce new live plants to your aquarium, it is best to leave the light on for longer periods of time; this gives the plants a better chance to take root. If you begin to see excessive algae, shorten the periods of light, this will retard the algae growth. It is also good to leave the aquarium lighting on longer in the winter, when natural light is less due to the season, for best growth and the healthiest aquarium plants.Proper lighting ensures the happy healthy life of aquarium plants and fish. Proper aquarium lighting is essential to fish and aquatic plants; it brings an aquarium to life. Beautiful aquariums can be stunning home attractions, bringing families together. Lighting plays a key role in creating striking aquatic scenes, but it is important to realize that different aquariums have different lighting needs.

Heat-Producing Lights Incandescent, VHO–fluorescent and metal halide lights produce lots of heat. Of the heat-producing lights, incandescent are the most common. They are inexpensive and versatile, but it is not advisable to leave them on too long. The smaller the aquarium, the more susceptible they are to sharp temperature rises. Leaving the lights on for extended periods or even overnight could prove deadly to an aquarium’s inhabitants. Frequently monitor the water temperature to get an idea how long you can safely keep the lights on (usually a few hours for 10-gallon aquariums). The house temperature, location in house (i.e. near a window), size of the aquarium and kinds of fish and plants are all factors in your decision. VHO (very high output), compact and metal halide lights are normally used by more experienced hobbyists, who often use ventilators in addition to their lighting systems to maintain consistent temperatures. Cooler Lights Normal output fluorescent lights are common, inexpensive and produce less heat.

They can be left on safely for long periods and are a great choice of lighting for hobbyists. Many tropical fish and plants can thrive in fluorescent lighting. Tropical Fish and Plants Native tropical fish and plants live within 23 degrees of the equator and experience about 12 hours of light and darkness. To recreate tropical conditions, leave the aquarium light on for 12 hours a day. Some tropical fish, such as the elephant nose fish, prefer dim lighting, and so if they’re included, provide them with plenty of hiding spaces. Tropical plants add beauty, color and often become food supplements for fish. They thrive in proper lighting, producing oxygen and remove harmful waste products. Common tropical “beginner” plants include the banana, Amazon, Java, and fern plants. Coldwater Fish and Plants Goldfish, minnows, ricefish and dannios (zebra fish) live in temperate zones where daylight hours fluctuate with the season. To create a more natural environment, match the seasonal daylight hours with the aquarium lighting.

There are many varieties of cold-water plants that can thrive in the home aquarium (i.e., Anubias species and tiger lotus). Algae Placing a tank too close to a window receiving direct sunlight can cause excessive algal growth. The addition of artificial lighting can exacerbate the condition. Some algae are beneficial; especially for algae-eating fish, but excessive growth obscures the view. If a tank must be kept near the window, balance daylight hours with lighting, distance from windows and the types of fish to control algae. Sometimes getting it right is a matter of trial and error. An algae scrubber can always restore the view if growth gets out of hand. References Aquarium Lighting Guide: Aquarium Lighting Guide: IntroductionThe 101 Best Aquarium Plants, Sweeney; Mary EllenVers Aquatics: Incandescent Lighting Photo Credits Jerry Yulsman/Photodisc/Getty Images MORE MUST-CLICKS: Metal Halide System for Homemade Aquariums T5 Aquarium Lighting Vs. Metal Halide The Best Lighting for a Planted Aquarium The Best Aquarium Light to Prevent Algae Do LED Marine Aquarium Lights Work as Well as Fluorescent Lights?