Planted-Tank Lighting Basics

Think in fixture class, not marketing numbers

We recommend a fixture class — not a hyped PAR number. Manufacturer PAR claims are rarely tested the way you’d test your own tank.

Low-tech vs high-tech

Low-tech tanks (no CO₂) do well with balanced full-spectrum light around 6500K. High-tech CO₂ tanks support tunable RGB or stronger-red fixtures.

Depth beats wattage

Deeper tanks need higher output to deliver the same usable light at the substrate.

Go up slowly

Dial intensity up gradually and watch the tank, not the dial. Algae wins when light and nutrients are unstable.

Use the lighting advisor on the Aquarium Studio hub, or browse our Planted / High-Tech range →