How to Choose the Right Lightbulb for an Aquarium

Choosing the right lighting for your aquarium is critical to the health and well being of the fish. Inappropriate bulbs create problems associated with harmful algae growth that clouds the aquarium and causes sickness in the aquatic life. The choice of lighting varies from standard or compact fluorescent bulbs to high-intensity metal halide systems. Using the correct bulbs for an aquarium requires a few simple steps to determine the most effective type of lighting you need.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use a measuring tape and measure the depth of water in the aquarium. Choose a metal halide lighting system for a large aquarium with a water depth of more than 24 inches. This provides the light intensity required to reach the bottom of the tank.

    • 2

      Choose a fluorescent system for aquariums less than 24 inches deep. Use a compact fluorescent lighting system if space is limited for the bulbs. Choose standard fluorescent lighting if space is not a problem or you want to reduce the cost of the bulbs.

    • 3

      Choose a 50/50 bulb as a general purpose light to create the right wave length intensity to promote beneficial algae growth, and to give a bright light to illuminate the fish. These types of bulbs are a mix of blue and white light at 10,000 degrees Kelvin and can be found at any pet supply store.

    • 4

      Use a full spectrum bulb as general purpose lighting in fresh or saltwater aquariums to emit the whole color spectrum and recreate a sunlight effect. Choose a plant bulb of between 5,500 and 7,500 degrees Kelvin to provide the correct photosynthesis promotion in an aquarium with many aquatic plants.

    • 5

      Choose an actinic bulb in aquariums more than 36 inches deep to give the right conditions for coral photosynthesis in the blue light. Combine the actinic bulb with a super daylight bulb to provide white light as well as blue, and to create more illumination in large aquariums that are at least 36 inches deep.

    • 6

      Add a color enhancing bulb if you want to highlight the vibrant colors of fish in the aquarium. Color enhancing bulbs emit orange and red light waves that enhance the color of the fish.

    • 7

      Choose a hybrid bulb of combined actinic phosphor and full spectrum light where the aquarium only has room for one bulb. Using a hybrid bulb provides a simple way to emit the basic types of light needed in most aquariums to maintain a healthy environment.