General Lighting

[Serj]

I really didn't think about this too much until now, mostly since the tanks I had already came with lighting. For non-planted, semi-high pH aquariums housing large cichlids, how necessary is it to have special lighting? Would the room lights or a desk lamp be fine? I'm not too knowledgable on the topic, and I'm confused as to whether cichlids (or fish in general) need any specific qualities that come with aquarium lights and hoods.

Reason being is I've found a good deal on a tank, but it doesn't have a proper hood with light fixtures :/ Would it matter? Any advice is appreciated Thanks

 

[famman]

No special needs unless you are growing plants. The main reason for an aquarium light is so YOU can see the fish. Indirect or room lighting is probably fine.
good luck

 

[Richer]

Indeed, a fish only tank needs only enough light so that the fish can tell the difference between night and day. I have my tank lights on for a total of maybe 5-10 minutes a day, during feeding time.
Plant tanks on the other hand, are a different story.

HTH
-Richer

 

[christopher1260]

since tank lights make it much easier to enjoy your fish, i would recommend making the $17 investment in a shoplight and 2 4' bulbs at lowe's or home depot. at that price, i don't see how you could pass it up. i also did not want to invest the hundreds of dollars on lights, so i went this cheaper route