Phytoplankton culture LED base

thingiverse

This is a cutting-edge prototype light base designed specifically for cultivating phytoplankton. To bring this project to completion, you will need both components printed out, and you may also require printing the disc as a template for trimming a piece of 1/4" clear acrylic to create the lens. Recommended parts include: Microswitch: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DN7Z67E Grow LED string: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00XHRYX2O DC Jacks: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GO56CCE Power supply: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B073ZF19QV Additionally, I used a 5 ohm, 5 watt power resistor in line to reduce the LED current to around half an amp, ensuring it doesn't overheat. I haven't initiated my Phytoplankton grow operation for my reef tank yet, so I'm still unsure if I'll need more or less light to achieve optimal growth. Update: I can now confirm that 6.6 watts of red/blue grow LEDs produces exceptional results with 1 liter flasks. I'm experiencing rapid growth, and each flask needs to be split once a week (100ml phyto to 900ml new water, with 1ml f/2). The box does get warm; I wouldn't recommend using it in a hot area or with more light than 6 watts without incorporating vents. I have another version in the works that utilizes an aluminum PCB for the 1W LEDs and features ventilation, which should allow for increased light output while minimizing heat retention within the case.