Output (VHO) lamps. These lamps provide from 75 to 110 watts of light per bulb, and when used in quantity they can easily provide enough light to satisfy the needs of any inhabitants (Reefkeeper’s FAQ). Yet to provide enough light for an average sized aquarium, at least four of these bulbs would be needed. Therefore, this form of lighting can be extremely expensive and create an abundance of heat that needs to be dissipated. The last option, and probably the best option for lighting are Metal Halide (MH) lights. This form of lighting is also florescent, but it is shaped more like a standard light bulb. Although expensive, these bulbs can provide a much higher output, from 150 to 400 watts per lamp (Reefkeeper’s FAQ). Even though these lamps are expensive, the cost per watt of light is actually less; since only one or two bulbs are needed for an average size aquarium. Once the aquarium is lit properly and the hobbyist has the water quality he or she needs, fish and other animals can be added. Yet, the hobbyist is not done with either water checks or the lighting. Both are something that will require a constant watch.Each time a new fish or invertebrate is added to or removed from the tank the chemical balance of the water is upset. The bacteria within the tank will then have to readjust either by reproducing more or dieing off. In either case, the ammonia levels will temporarily rise until the chemical balance of the water settles back down. This requires the hobbyist to consistently monitor the water. If he or she does not, the quality of the water may quickly become uninhabitable.Lighting also requires constant watch. As the bulbs age, the output power and light spectrum will change. Most florescent bulbs will last around 18 to 24 months (Reefkeeper’s FAQ). To keep good lighting conditions within the tank, good rule of thumb is to replace the bulbs within the tank every year. With properly m...
