Call them, tell them your plans if you have any and they can recommend the appropriate kit. Their kits are better than most cunsomer lights you can get.
depends on your plant choice and how much work you want to put into it. For an easy low light setup, aim for 70-100w of light. To grow virtually any plant, but will require more work (CO2, more ferts, trimming, etc) aim for 150w.
i say about 100-150 watts.. and run a mild co2 fert. that way its kind of on both ends.. low light and all out now you can have pretty much most plants. run it cool with PC's or iv seen some people do halogen spots.. its really all up to you but remember some fishes dont like alot of light
If you go over 2 wpg (110 watts) you will need CO2. And DIY CO2 on a 55 gallon aquarium is hard to maintain. Fluctuating CO2 levels can contribute to algae.
Go to Home Depot (if you have one nearby) and get 2 $7 shoplight fixtures. Over where the fluorescent bulbs are, look for a 2 pack of Sylvania 32w T8 6500k bulbs. About $6 for the 2-pack. Get 2 (4 bulbs total). Now you will have your 2wpg for under $30 - (4x32)/55=2.33wpg.
And while you are at HD, you could pick up a 48" door mirror for $5 to use as a reflector. You may need a glass cutter as well. Cant say how much they cost, but cant be more than a few dollars I wouldnt think.
And be sure to search through the DIY section for more help and ideas on building your own unit. And dont forget to ask questions. The folks here are a wealth of information and are always willing to help out.
and stick with the plants listed under "Not Specific", "Low" and "Medium Low".
There are others that I am sure would do OK but those found above are a good start. I'm working on planting my 55g with the same type of lighting and was given that link on another forum.
