Need help with lighting for 55 gal, NOOB!!

[russ452]

Okay where do I start? I am new to the planted venue. Have had fish only for a couple of years but want to get into the planted so I gave my daughter the fish and am starting from scratch. I am picking up the equipment first. Got an Eheim ProII 2026 off of EBAY the other day. Now I am going for the lights. I will be getting CO2 injection next. I have the glass canopies on the way and picked up a couple of nice pieces of driftwood that are soaking now.
Regarding the lights...HELP...I have read so much in both books and forums that I am totally confused. I think I want about 130w for now. Does anyone have any suggestions on the best location to purchase and any suggestions on what I really need would be greatly appreciated. I am thanking you in advance for any suggestions or help. Thanks!!

 

[hillbilly]

2, 55 watt power compacts with good reflectors should be plenty to grow most plants IMO. High light loving plants may require more, but I don't think those would be a good idea starting out anyway. Keep in mind a parabolic type reflector will be a lot more efficient than a flat one. Some people are using T5 HO lights now, but I have no experience with them. Here is where I got my lights www.ahsupply.com

 

[WeeNe858]

the best spectrum for plants would be 67k bulbs. low light plants prefer about 1-3 watts per gallon. medium and high light plants prefer about 3-6 watts per gallon. but i reccomend to start with about 2.5-3 watts per gallon. some options are to custom build it or to buy a fixture to match your needs

 

[russ452]

Thanks for the replys. I guess I'll begin a search for around 130w, 67k lights with a good parabolic reflector. Appreciate your help.

 

[russ452]

Does anyone have a good online store for locating about 130w, 67k, parabolic reflector, 48" light, Either T-5 or pc but what I'm finding would probably have to be pc to get 130w. Your help is appreciated as my eyes are starting to cross trying to find one. Thanks

 

[russ452]

Well, I'm done looking...I'll just go with the Drs. and get the Coralife, freshwater with 2x65w,PC, 6700, polished reflector I'll put the stationary legs on it and keep it up off the canopy. They've got it for $130. I know I could keep searching and find it for less I'm sure but I want to move onto the next item, CO2 and get closer to finally filling this thing. The driftwood is clearing up good and I'm getting ready to move on. Thanks for all of your help, you guys are an invaluable resource.