Saltwater aquarium lighting isn't really all that difficult, once you understand what each type of lighting has to offer. From fluorescent to metal halide to power compacts, the basics are explained so you can make a wise choice for your tank.
Lighting Fundamentals
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With all of the different types of aquarium lights available, understanding what each is capable of and what they can produce will help you to make wise choices for your particular needs. Lighting Fundamentals Types of Aquarium Light Fixtures Before You Buy Reef Tank Lighting
Reef System Lighting - What to Buy and Why
Kristina Hammer
Fish Only (FO) aquariums can function with minimal lighting while reef tanks, with their associated corals and invertebrates, require much more light in the higher spectrums. The Reef Tank Lighting Rule of Thumb explains the basic light requirements of most corals, but understanding the different types of aquarium lights on the market today will help you understand the options available to fulfill those goals. Reef System Lighting - What to Buy and Why Tank Lighting - Reef Systems Coral Lighting Fish-Only Tank Lighting
VHO Fluorescents
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VHO Fluorescent lights were among the first lights to be used for reef tank lighting. While there are a number of types available, some of them are not suitable for use with coral tanks. Kelvin Ratings of Fluorescent Light Bulbs Tank Lighting - VHO Fluorescents
Power Compacts & Metal Halides
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The introduction of Power Compact (PC) and Metal Halide (MH) lights has been a giant leap forward for reef tank (coral) lighting. These lights produce a lot of light with a relatively small footprint, allowing even the smallest of reef tanks to hold corals with a high success rate. Power Compact (PC) Lights Top Metal Halide Fixtures
Retrofits and DIY Lighting Projects
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With the advent of Metal Halide and Power Compact aquarium lights came the retrofit kits allowing aquarists the option of upgrading their existing fixtures to use the more powerful lights. These kits are also a boon to Do-It-Yourselfers who prefer to design and construct their own fixtures for their specific needs. Top Fluorescent, VHO, PC and Metal Halide Ballasts Top Metal Halide & PC Retrofit Kits DIY Hood & Lighting Projects
Making Your Lighting Choice
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With so many choices, it can be difficult to choose the right lighting for your reef tank. You can view the Lighting Poll results to see what other aquarists are using and also look at the Top Aquarium Lighting Products to see what is available on the market today.
