How to choose the Perfect Lighting For the aquarium

By Linda Marshall

Keeping of aquariums in homes is gaining popularity and people have various reasons for doing so. One popular reason for keeping aquariums is to beautify the place. One important aspect of successfully keeping fish is lighting, which is quite challenging for those keeping fish for the first time.

The reason for this challenge is due to the availability of different types of lighting that can be displayed in the aquarium. The various lighting available are normal fluorescent lights, metal halide, VHO fluorescent, compact fluorescent, high fluorescent and Light Emitting Diodes (LED).

The type of fish to be kept in the aquarium determines the kind of lighting that is needed. A single lamp can be used if the number of fish to be kept is small. Despite the lighting used in the fish tank, it is important to know that the light will only be required by the fish at specific times.

The reason for this is that the fish cannot tolerate excess light whereas too little light will make the fish less energetic and lose color. Individuals should opt for certain lamps that are able to produce red light which makes the fish be illuminated perfectly. The best type for such fish aquarium is incandescent lighting since it provides several bulb color and strengths.

The depth of the fish tank is important factor to consider when choosing the proper lighting needed. Deep aquariums require more lighting compared to shallow tanks. The perfect light for these tanks is metal halide. Deep tanks can also be fitted with compact bulbs, which are affordable and are long lasting. Those having fish plants should exercise caution when they are deciding the appropriate light for their fish tank.

This is because if they make a poor choice their plants will either grow poorly or fail to grow at all. When choosing a lamp for this kind of aquarium, one should opt for those with red wavelengths light emissions. After considering the above, the cost of the lighting also matters and prices vary accordingly. One should also remember that well lit aquariums mean healthy plants and fish. This will in turn translate into the beauty of the whole aquarium. - 29953

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