suspend lights from ceiling?

A

andyjh

AC Members
Feb 18, 2009
574
3
18
Massachusetts
Just gave my AH supply kit a test drive. It's the 2x55 kit for my 55 gallon. It's BRIGHT compared to the skimpy 40 watt fluorescent it's replacing. Two questions: If I decided to suspend this from the ceiling, maybe 6 inches over the top of the tank, would this represent a serious light loss? Secondarily, some folks I've spoken with say they go "topless" eliminating any plastic or glass covers over their tanks and they claim they never have "jumpers". Just seeking some opinions on this.
Thanks,
Andy

lights1.jpg lights2.JPG
 
Raising any light above the tank will result in loss of penetrating power (the light amount able to reach the bottom).

By going topless you promote gas exchange and evaporation. If you are dosing C02 this wouldnt be a choice you want to take. If you want to go topless, and keep peace of mind on your fish staying in the tank, get some Eggcrate at Home Depot etc. Cut it to the size of your tank and it will help keep fish in, but have the benefits of A topless tank.
 
right now...zebra danios, cardinal tetras, platies. future: harlequin rasboras, cory cats and my kids want one of the dwarf frogs.
Andy
 
i think you would be fine as is all my tanks are are topless and alot of people with planted tanks go top less especially high tech tanks. also raising your light that much i feel wouldn't be that big of a deal
 
All my tanks are topless (and have been for years), it just depends on what fish you want. I would not buy Hatchet fish for my tank for this reason.
 
havent ever went topless on a tank... but not a bad idea
 
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