David C

I just set up a 55g and the standard 18" bulbs are only 15w each. I want to have a nicely planted tank so I need to upgrade my lighting, but I don't know where to go. My LFS is WAY overpriced, and I would like to stick with something that fits on the existing hood or best yet, a simple bulb swap. Any ideas or information would be appreciated.

Thanks

lilsoccakid

you will have to remove those fixtures unfortunatly.

i was in the same situation, and the cheapest/best way to start is with this

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/produc...0&pcatid=16770

this is a very good price to get into t-5, and because its t-5 lighting, you get a 2.4WPG rating over a 55 gal

hope this helps

David C

Thanks for the info. It's going to be a tough sell for wifey, its a little more than I wanted to spend. I may end up having to replace the entire hood to get something that will fit decent, the 18" doesnt seem to offer the right options. I guess Ill be saving for another month before I try and convince her (wifey) that I NEED this stuff

Lucy

I don't know if this helps, but check the lighting fixtures in Walmart. I had to replace my fluorescent bulb in one of my 10g's and that's where I found them.
I got the basic, but I seem to remember them having difference wattage's for plants.

David C

Thanks Lucy, I'll give it a shot. I'll be there anywayz buying new substrate and decorations for my 10g... its gonna be a betta tank as soon as the new bio-wheel arrives for it this week. I'm of course gonna cycle it