New tank

[Johnb]

I just recently got a 55 gallon tank and I put in live rock and saltwater and sand and it has been cycling for about 3 weeks. I took my water to my local fish store and they tested all of my levels and salinity and they said that it is ready for fish. Now I want to buy lights but I'm not sure what type of lights to get. I am planning on having coral as well. Any suggestions on lighting? (attached is a picture)

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[Beach Bum]

Led radions ... Love mine. Make sure you research what you want
This is one of the most important things you will buy. Remember you get what ou pay for
Good luck on your journey

 

[Rikerbear]

Depends on what you are planning for your tank. You can get all types of lights and in all price levels....some will be over kill if all you are planning is fish and soft corals. If you are planning for more of a mixed reef or an SPS tank, than better lighting is needed.
What are your plans for the tank?
Also I'd say you need a good bit more live rock

 

[eliramos]

Depends on what you ware planning for your tank. You can get all types of lights and in all price levels....some will be over kill if all you are planning is fish and soft corals. If you are planning for more of a mixed reef or an SPS tank, than better lighting is needed.
What are your plans for the tank?
Also I'd say you need a good bit more live rock

Agreed, it requires all the patience in the world but if I were you I would get your aqua scape finished before adding livestock it will cause a lot less hassle on you your fish and corals in the long run.


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[Johnb]

I just plan on having soft corals and fish in it.

 

[Rikerbear]

Softies and fish don't require high intensity lighting so you can go less expensive....however if you are like most of us, you might want to go a bit higher end just in case the SPS bug does hit you :smile:

 

[Johnb]

I might actually but not anytime soon. Can you recommend me a specific type of lighting that is worth it and will last me but won't kill my pocket?

 

[Zack]

Yep looks like you need to add more rock. As for the lights ther are many options, what are your coral plans?

 

[Rikerbear]

I love my Taotronic leds (cheap Ebay buy) - they aren't dimmable or programmable but are amazingly bright and coverage is awesome.
My 120 watt fixture which I use on my 29 fish and softie tank was $156.00 (total with shipping was $189)
I've also heard that Reef Builders has some lower cost fixtures too

 

[SeahorseKeeper]

Welcome to R2R!! Looks like your off to a great start!!