infrared heat lamp

[timc]

Hello all,

I am growing South American cool cloud forest miniatures in a 55 gallon aquarium, in a cool basement. During the day, I heat using 2 infrared lamps outside of the tank, which brings the internal temperature +/- 15 degrees above the room temperature.

At night, the temp drops below the 55 degree suggested minimum for the plants when the lamps are not in use.

Question:

Can I use the infrared lamps through the night to stay above the 55 degrees without concern for the light the plants are getting? Can infrared light damage the plants?

I've seen the "blacklight" version of the heat lamp bulb. Is this a possiblity?

Thanks alot for any help- you can give.

Tim

[Magnus A]

Hi

You should not use "blacklight" bulbs as they are UV-light! This is the part of the spectra that do direct irridiation damage to green plants!

To use the IR light for heating during the night I think it is a bad idé as you probably have more part of the spectra. There are seldom any "true" pure IR light for deasent money on the market.

/Magnus

[timc]

Magnus,

Thanks for the advice- I appreciate it. Tonite i wrapped some insulation around the tank to see the result.
Anyone esle want to give your opinion? Tim

[phearamedusa]

have you tried ceramic heaters, they are used in reptile tanks to provide without any light emissions. They come in various wattages, try the lowest you can find, probably 40w. Available at most good petshops. forgot to mention they are supposed to last a long time, and can be put on a dimmer switch to control heat. You do need to have proper porcelain socket, and hood to protect fingers etc from getting burnt as they do get very hot.