Aquarium lighting requirements differ with the needs of the specific ecosystem being displayed. Aquariums are usually categorized as fish only, planted freshwater, or marine reef. Proper lighting promotes photosynthesis, influences healthy behavior, and physiology of all species. The three general categories of aquarium lighting are fluorescent, high intensity metal halide, and LED (light emitting diode).
Fluorescent Lighting
Fluorescent aquarium lighting is broken down into four categories Compact, Normal Output (NO), Very High Output (VHO), and T5 HO. The most important factor when using fluorescent lights are the photosynthetic needs of the tank. Fluorescent lighting has the lowest amount of light penetration.
Normal Output (NO): Double ended, for use in fish only aquariums, salt or freshwater
Compact: Single ended, brighter and more energy efficient than NO bulbs
Very High Output (VHO): Higher lumen count, less heat than metal halide, even light distribution
T5 HO: Highest lumen count of fluorescent lighting, least heat generating, most energy efficient
LED Lighting
Light emitting diodes or LED lighting is relatively new to the aquarium industry. This type of lighting allows for unmatched light spectrum control. They radiate no heat to the tank but do generate heat upwards to the strip they are housed in. They are extremely energy efficient and use no heavy metal gases. They do emit very intense light so it is important to monitor and acclimate the light intensity to the tank. Improper light intensity can burn or bleach.
Metal Halide Lighting
Metal halide is the most popular lighting option for aquariums. Mainly because they are the highest emitter of lumens available. They provide a full spectrum light which is extremely effective on corals. They do produce a large amount of heat and require a bulb every 2-3 feet of tank length. They have the deepest penetration of light into water. This type of lighting is the most effective way to mimic natural sunlight. Adding actinic lighting is required for most reef aquariums to mimic the blue light spectrum that corals need.
It is important to take the Kelvin scale into account for lighting requirements. Depending on the tank inhabitant’s natural living depth. Kelvin measures the wavelength of light that penetrates water.
| Aquarium Type | Kelvin Scale |
|---|---|
| Freshwater Fish Only | 6500K-10000K |
| Saltwater Fish Only | 6500K-10000K |
| Planted Freshwater | 5500K-6500K |
| Marine Reef (shallow) | 5500K-10000K |
| Marine Reef (deep) | 10000K-20000K |
| Refugium | 5500K-6500K |
 Packaged Chillers Non-expandable (integrated pump tank) 1.5Ton – 20Ton Single / Dual Circuits Single / Dual Pumps |
 SAE Series Modular Chillers Expandable (pump & tank on separate skid) 1.5Ton – 200Ton Single / Dual Circuits |
 SAR Series Split Chillers Expandable (Outdoor Condensing Unit) (pump, tank, evaporator on indoor skid) 1.5Ton – 200Ton Single / Dual Circuits |