Hi,
Theoretically, assuming a constant supply of CO2, lighting and nutrients in sufficient quantity, will plants continue to grow at a steady rate?
I have been thinking of a 'hypothetical aquarium' concept whereby I connect an imaginary tank to an imaginary computer that can precisely control all aquarium parameters (light, CO2 level, temperature, nutrients etc).
If we were to fill this 'hypothetical aquarium' of mine with a fast growing plant, let's say some Ambulia, and, using the computer, 'lock in' a balanced CO2, lighting and nutrient selection (that would be precisely maintained in an 'auto-pilot' style fashion via the computer), would the plant grow continiously? Or would the plant grow a bit, stop for a while, grow a bit more etc etc??? If there was nothing ever inhibiting growth, I can't see any reason why a plant would not just continously grow? Do plants need to 'sleep', so to speak? And, if so, would the plant get to a point where it would refuse to grow any more and hence give algae it's chance to bloom?
I have noticed that in my real aquarium, where I use a 12 hour photo period, the plant leaves start to close up towards the end of the photoperiod. I'm interpreting this, maybe incorrectly, as the plants saying 'I've had enough for now'. If this is true, I would guess that if the photo period was any longer, algae would start to get it's chance?
Scott.
Theoretically, assuming a constant supply of CO2, lighting and nutrients in sufficient quantity, will plants continue to grow at a steady rate?
I have been thinking of a 'hypothetical aquarium' concept whereby I connect an imaginary tank to an imaginary computer that can precisely control all aquarium parameters (light, CO2 level, temperature, nutrients etc).
If we were to fill this 'hypothetical aquarium' of mine with a fast growing plant, let's say some Ambulia, and, using the computer, 'lock in' a balanced CO2, lighting and nutrient selection (that would be precisely maintained in an 'auto-pilot' style fashion via the computer), would the plant grow continiously? Or would the plant grow a bit, stop for a while, grow a bit more etc etc??? If there was nothing ever inhibiting growth, I can't see any reason why a plant would not just continously grow? Do plants need to 'sleep', so to speak? And, if so, would the plant get to a point where it would refuse to grow any more and hence give algae it's chance to bloom?
I have noticed that in my real aquarium, where I use a 12 hour photo period, the plant leaves start to close up towards the end of the photoperiod. I'm interpreting this, maybe incorrectly, as the plants saying 'I've had enough for now'. If this is true, I would guess that if the photo period was any longer, algae would start to get it's chance?
Scott.