Lighting

[jimfocke]

I have a 55 gallon and it is well set up and nearly 4 years old, I have dwarf guaramis, 9 of them. They are so pretty,
they change collors every turn and thrust they make. The bulb is a 20 watt
that came with the tank. My friend has a 55 gallon tank and when she saw how my fish where so pretty went out and bought a 20 watt collor enhancing bulb. They collor is not as striking as mine...
Any ideas? Would a 15 watt bulb produce more dazzling collor??? We are going for the richest collor effect possable...Thank you..Jim

[OrionGirl]

Often, the condition of the fish determines color more than the lighting. Poor water conditions (not saying unhealthy, just not optimal) could contribute to color variations. Feeding differences will also result in color variation. Also, the combination of fish--several males together with challenge one another, and show their best colors to be impressive and display dominance. The background will also alter how bright a fish appears.

Of course, you can look at your bulb and see what color it is. It should list the spectrum. For dwarf gouramies, the actinics, which put off more blue light, might make a large difference.

[beviking]

If you research lighting, you'll find bulbs rated in Kelvin which depicts it's color range (as seen by the human eye). There are many to choose from and depending on the colors in your tank (gravel, decor, plants) some will make your tank look better than others. Of course, it's your tank, so you're the judge. I'd suggest trying several different bulbs to see which one is best. Even Walmart has "sunlight" or "daylight" bulbs and "aquarium" or "plant" bulbs. Personally, I'd add another bulb too, but if 20 watts is enough for you, that's what matters.

Try doing a search for lighting (using the search button in the upper right) and see what you get. Good luck!