Aquascaping Lighting

Choose Lighting for Your Planted Aquarium

Start with physical fit. Check the aquarium length, the light's adjustable mounting range and whether it is designed to sit on the tank, attach to the rim or suspend above it. A nominal 60cm light will not necessarily fit every 60cm aquarium in the same way.

Then match the light to the plants and layout. Hardy low-light plants generally need less intensity than dense carpeting plants or strongly coloured stems. Aquarium depth, surface cover, hardscape shading and floating plants can also change how much light reaches the lower leaves.

Full-Spectrum Aquarium LED Lights

Full-spectrum LED aquarium lights are designed to provide a broad visual spectrum and can support planted-tank viewing and growth when the output is appropriate for the aquarium. RGB channels can improve colour presentation, but the label alone does not determine whether a light suits a particular plant or tank depth.

Review the manufacturer's specifications and any dimming, timer or colour-channel controls. Adjustable output can make it easier to begin conservatively and increase intensity only when plant growth and aquarium balance support it.

Balance Light, Nutrients and CO2

Lighting is only one part of a planted aquarium. Plants also need suitable nutrients, stable water conditions and an available carbon source. Increasing light without balancing the rest of the system can increase maintenance and may favour algae rather than healthy plant growth.

Use a consistent daily schedule and make gradual changes. There is no single intensity or photoperiod that suits every aquarium, so follow the light manufacturer's guidance and adjust according to the plants, CO2 method and response of the tank.

Complete Your Aquascaping Setup

Pair your light with live aquarium plants, planted substrate and aquasoil, aquascaping tools and suitable plant supplements. For general aquarium lighting by tank length, browse aquarium LED lighting.

Shop online for Australia-wide delivery or contact Aquaholics on the Sunshine Coast for help comparing current models and sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size aquarium light should I buy?

Choose a light whose stated fitting range and mounting system match your aquarium's actual length and rim design. Check the individual product specifications rather than relying only on the nominal tank size.

Do all aquarium plants need a high-powered light?

No. Hardy low-light plants can grow under moderate lighting, while carpeting plants and demanding coloured stems may need stronger output and a more carefully balanced setup.

Is a full-spectrum LED good for planted aquariums?

It can be. Full-spectrum LEDs can support plant growth and natural colour presentation when their output, coverage and controls suit the aquarium and plant selection.

Can too much aquarium light cause problems?

Excessive intensity or an overly long schedule can contribute to algae and plant stress when nutrients, CO2 and maintenance are not balanced with the light level.

Do I need CO2 with planted aquarium lighting?

Not every planted aquarium needs injected CO2. Higher light levels and demanding plants can increase carbon demand, so the lighting choice should suit the intended low-tech or CO2-supplemented setup.