deciding on a light..... what do you think about this one

I need better lightng over my 55 gallon. I want to grow some low level plants, and want to make my tank more stunning by being brighter.
I have looked at the light but it looks like its over the water and has no glass top. so my question is, does this light fit the bill for my 55 gallon tanks needs, and do I need a glass top with it or not?


Here is what it says about the light......
48" 130 Includes two 21"
50/50 bulbs
(Straight pin base) 48" 130 Includes two 65 watt
21" 6700°K
(Straight pin base)

Coralife Aqualight Single Compact Fluorescent Strip Lights
* High quality compact fluorescent light fixtures at affordable prices
* Energy efficient internal electronic ballast for reliable performance
* Available in freshwater and saltwater models to suit your aquarium lighting needs


High quality compact fluorescent light fixtures at affordable prices. Each Aqualight fixture provides more than twice the light output than normal output fluorescent light fixtures of comparable size. Features a stylish yet durable anodized aluminum housing with on/off switch and an energy efficient internal electronic ballast for reliable and lasting performance. Highly polished reflector maximizes light output and distributes it evenly across your aquarium. Protective acrylic lens cover prevents water splashes from coming into direct contact with lamps. Coralife Aqualights are the easy and affordable way to upgrade standard fluorescent lighting systems.

Attach optional Mounting Legs or Adjustable Mounting Legs (also for Aqualight Pro units) to Aqualight fixture for convenient aquarium access. Strip lights are to be used over a glass canopy. Adjustable mounting legs not recommended for use with a hood enclosure or for aquariums using a glass canopy.

Mgamer20o0 said:

no you dont need the glass. i would try and find out one that comes with 2 plant bulbs so you dont have to buy new bulbs.

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I am still so confused. maybe you can recomend one for me under 200.00 ? its for my 55 gallon tank

that light above says it comes with these bulbs....
Freshwater compact fluorescent strip lights include 6700°K compact fluorescent lamp(s) ideal for freshwater planted aquariums.

Mgamer20o0 said:

find the same thing but set up for plants. 50/50 bulbs not going to help much. you want a 6500k-10000k bulb

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here is the link....
http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=9871&rel=1

48" 130 Includes two 65 watt
21" 6700°K
(Straight pin base)

I made a mistake and posted the marine ones on the above first post. these come with

130 Includes two 65 watt
21" 6700°K
(Straight pin base

anyone?

I made a mistake on the above post ( with the pictured light) it says this light comes with ....130 Includes two 65 watt
21" 6700°K
(Straight pin base

blasterman_ said:

I have one of these fixtures in my garage (somewhere). Shame, because if I could find it I would sell it.

The Coralife is a nice, well built fixture that's reasonably inexpensive - I recommend it. It looks good to. I specified marine but got the freshwater bulbs, but there's no question you want the 6700k bulbs over the marine, which are likely 10000k / actinic. Go with the marine bulbs if you *don't* want to house plants but want to show fish colors. 21" PC's are also the most common and easiest to replace locally.

Might be over kill for 'low light' plants.

I prefer covered tanks over open ones because I have fish that jump and will jump, but that's a personal preference.

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well go get it, I have not placed my order yet LOL! I am also worried about the open tank, my kids and all. I love the look but an open tank? I worry my fish will jump out to I am so confused. I want a decent light, but I could never afford some of those out there. I hate the fact my other tank has lights laying on top and I have to move one off to feed my fish. the light that lifts up is convient. but again do I want to take a chance of an open tank with 2 very lively boys and fish?? I figured, if I up graded the tank lights the tank would be so much brighter and prettier. also I can add some better plants.