Fluorescent lamps are a favorite choice of many aquarists, whether beginners or old-timers in fishkeeping. Not only are they energy-efficient and cool, but they are less expensive than other types aquarium lights, even for their replacements after long use. They also help set up the right spectrum, as they are available in a good variety of colors.
Different types of fluorescent lights are regular fluorescent lights, compact, high output (HO), and very high output (VHO) fluorescent lights. The regular type is the common choice for starter fish tanks since this kind of aquarium lighting is more affordable. It is available in 15 to 40 watts, with Kelvin ratings of 3,000 to 10,000 degrees. Kelvin ratings are important since they indicate the specific color temperature to meet a more specific lighting need. The compact type is a definite upgrade, available in 10 to 100 watts and 5,000 to 10,000 degrees Kelvin ratings. They give out bright, intense lighting, but may cause the water to heat up a bit.
HO fluorescent lights are available in 20 to 60 watts and 6,000 to 11,000 degrees Kelvin ratings. Though a bit expensive, you can recover the cost since they typically last longer. On the other hand, VHO fluorescent lights have a Kelvin rating of 10,000 to 20,000 degrees and are available in 75 to 160 watts. But with the very high output, expect them to be a bit expensive and to give out much heat. The benefit to using HO and VHO fluorescent lights is that they emit more light but use less energy and have a longer life span.
