Aquarium cover and lighting for fish

Aquarium lights and covers

What's the best way to prevent things from falling into the tank and to keep your fish from jumping out? Simple--always use a cover or hood. There are many varieties available that are manufactured to fit snugly in standard-sized tanks. A tank cover is also crucial in limiting water evaporation, and most covers come equipped with the apparatus to install your choice of lighting.

Aquarium lighting for heat and light

Light is necessary for maintaining the health of fish and aquatic plants. It also shows off the colors of your fish and turns your tank into a real display piece. Basic starter tanks usually include a cover with an incandescent light. Although adequate, this type of light generates heat, which makes it harder to regulate the water temperature. Experts recommend fluorescent lighting. It may be more expensive than incandescent, but is more energy-efficient. Fluorescent fixtures provide even distribution of light and will beautifully illuminate your fishes' hues. If plants are a part of your set-up, fluorescent lights will promote their growth; incandescence can in fact be detrimental to more delicate species.

Aquarium plant lighting keeps fish and plants healthy

When selecting wattage, the rule of thumb is 1 to 3 watts per gallon. Ask at the aquarium store what will best fulfill the needs of the fish and flora in your tank. The light should be kept on for about 10 hours daily. Both pets and plants will appreciate a consistent schedule, so be sure to turn it on and off at the same time each day; an automatic timer can help in that department. And finally, keep in mind that sudden changes in light can stress fish, so it helps to keep the lights in the room on for about a half hour after shutting off the tank light.

To ensure the best conditions for the tank's inhabitants, it is suggested that you replace fluorescent bulbs every 8 months or so, as they will degrade over time. If you have more than one light to change, try to stagger the replacement bulbs one or two weeks apart. This will allow your fish and plants to better adapt to the change.