Is LED Lighting Good for Aquarium Plants?

Light emitting diodes, also known as LED lights, are a popular alternative to other forms of lighting using heated tungsten filaments to produce light. LED lights are designed to use energy more efficiently, and they also produce a different color. Rather than having a yellowish glow, the light emitted from LED lights is closer to a true white. This has its advantages and drawbacks, but your aquarium plants should survive just fine under this alternative lighting.

  1. Use

    • LED lighting produces a color of light similar to what fluorescent lights provide. The lighting is similar to moonlight, which has led to LED lights being used to produce lunar lighting. This is believed to produce a more natural lighting environment for aquarium plants and fish. According to Pet-Expo.com, it can also increase spawning among fish.

    Benefits

    • Many of the benefits of LED lighting is enjoyed by the aquarium owner. LED lights last much longer than standard bulbs. Although they cost more to purchase, they use less electricity and can lower your monthly electric bill. They are more durable since filaments in the bulb do not breaks. LED lighting is also much cooler, which makes it easier to control water temperature -- this can protect your plants as well as your fish.

    Drawbacks

    • The high cost of LED lights is a drawback to some aquarium owners who are reluctant to make such an investment. LED lighting also needs to be placed more consistently along the length of the aquarium -- you should position an LED light overhead every 24 inches along the length of the tank to make sure your plants receive adequate lighting.

    Considerations

    • If you are unsure of whether LED lighting is the best approach for your specific aquarium plants, contact a fish or aquarium specialist. There are other factors to consider when installing LED lighting, including the effects on the specific types of fish you have, as well as the size of the tank. But according to Foster and Smith Aquatics, both freshwater and reef aquariums can be serviced by LED lighting.