Lighting: Split or full coverage?

[Mango]

I'm setting up a new 40-gallon planted tank and can't decide between split lighting or full coverage. I've got a mix of Anubias, Java Fern, and some stem plants. What's worked best for you guys?

[guppywave]

Full coverage all the way, mate. My plants went nuts when I switched from split to full. Just make sure you got the right intensity, or you'll end up with algae city.

[florabell]

It depends on your plant types and tank depth. For a 40-gallon with Anubias and Java Fern, split lighting might be better to avoid burning the lower-light plants. What's your substrate like?

[Boldy]

Full coverage all the way, mate. My plants went nuts when I switched from split to full. Just make sure you got the right intensity, or you'll end up with algae city.

I agree with guppywave, but you gotta watch the photoperiod too. I run mine for 8 hours max to keep algae in check.

[hutmog]

Split lighting's chill if you're gonna have different light needs in the tank. My stem plants love the full blast, but the Anubias would melt if I didn't give 'em some shade.

[Mango]

Thanks for the input, everyone. I'll probably start with split lighting and adjust based on how the plants respond.

[nixora]

I've only used full coverage, but my tank is smaller. Do you think split lighting would work better for a 20-gallon?

[luminarix]

Split lighting sounds like a hassle. Why not just dim the full coverage if some plants need less light?

[microvolt]

I'm new to this, but my buddy runs split lighting and his tank looks dope. He's got like, two different zones for high and low light plants.

[fishtail]

Split lighting sounds like a hassle. Why not just dim the full coverage if some plants need less light?

Nah, dimming ain't the same. Split lets you target specific areas, ya know? Like, my Crypts get the shade they need while the Rotala gets all the juice.