Aquarium lighting

Aquarium lighting is essential for highlighting the decorative elements of the tank, but also for ensuring the well-being of the fish and the proper development of plants. Fluorescent tubes and LED lighting kits are available on the market.

Here are some important facts about aquarium lighting:

- Lighting time should be between 10 and 12 hours to faithfully reproduce the day and night cycle;

- The appearance of green algae indicates overexposure to light, while the proliferation of brown algae is a sign of insufficient lighting;

- It contributes to the photosynthetic activities of plants;

- Some systems are plugged into a power outlet while others run on batteries.

There are two types of fluorescent tubes.

- HQL tubes are valued for their lighting power, which illuminates the tank despite size restrictions. Their progressive lighting reduces stress on the fish.

- HQI lamps are suitable for both freshwater and saltwater aquariums. They are ideal for large tanks hosting live plants. They have a power range from 70 W to over 1,000 W to light a deep aquarium. Their lifespan can reach up to 15,000 hours.

Several parameters should be considered when installing fluorescent tubes:

- They are suitable for open aquariums;

- They should be hung about 30 cm from the water surface;

- Their weight varies from 3 kg (HQL) to 30 kg (HQI);

- The required power is 1 W for 2 l to 3 l of water;

- It is necessary to replace the tubes every 6 to 8 months, taking care to replace one tube at a time to avoid disturbing the balance of the aquarium;

- The starter should be replaced every year.

LED lamps are an alternative to fluorescent tubes. They offer several advantages worth knowing:

- Their lifespan is about 50,000 hours;

- They are appreciated for their low energy consumption;

- They do not emit heat;

- They are shock-resistant;

- Some kits reproduce the day and night cycle.

Thus, aquarium lighting plays a major role in the development and well-being of

fish and plants. Some lamps with a glass reservoir can be attached

to the walls or placed at the bottom of the tank to optimize lighting and the aesthetic effect.