Coloured Pygmy Light Bulbs

Lighting is a very critical element to any aquatic ecosystem. Fish only tanks are not quite as critical, but reef and planted systems are very dependent on lighting.

Lighting is normally rated with a Kelvin temperature, which is designated by the letter K. This reading is equivalent to the color of light produced by a flame at a given temperature in Kelvin (Celsius -273 = Kelvin) Fluorescent lights normally range from 5000-8000K whereas Metal Halide normally ranges from 5500K to 20000K. When an object begins to burn, it produces light at a rusty red color (about 500K) and goes to a very intense blue color (20000 to 30000K). Under normal daylight conditions with no overcast, the sky produces light at about 6500 to 7000K.

It is important to have a fluorescent system either by itself or in conjunction with metal halide. The fluorescents will provide the widest range of light, from 5000 to 8000K, which is usually sufficient for most systems. If you keep aquatic plants or coral, you may wish to supplement your fluorescents with metal halide. As a general rule of thumb, if you keep aquatic plants, stony coral (Acropora) or clams, you should have at least a fluorescent system with 6500K metal halide lighting. And, if you have a tank deeper than 20", metal halide is almost a necessity.

In reef systems, it is recommended that you use at least a 1 to 1 ratio of blue and white light. If you also intend to use metal halide lighting at 5500K or 6500K, you should use entirely blue fluorescent tubes. If using 10K metal halide bulbs, you'll use white or combo fluorescent bulbs.

Lighting is confusing. If you have additional questions, please call.

Aquarium Lighting is arguably the most important part of a successful reef aquarium or planted freshwater tank. Not only do you need the appropriate amount of light, but it is essential that the colors given off are adequate for the reef species or plants. It is also amongst the most confusing and misunderstood of all aquarium supplies and equipment as there are just so may types. Here you'll find fluorescent aquarium lights, metal halide aquarium lights, compact fluorescent aquarium lights and specialty products like moonlight aquarium lights and lighting systems. So call us if you have any questions with aquarium lighting.