Ideas to get better lighting

[mhcnoriega]

Hey,

So i have a 55 gallon rectangular tank with a hood that supports 1 long flourescent bulb. I have a few plants but they are getting pale so I believe they are not getting enough light. Does anyone have any inexpensive ideas that would make my tank better lighted? Could a solution be to add lamps above the tank?

Thanks. All ideas are welcome.

 

[jbradt]

You can get a 4' T8 or T5 set up at home depot or lowes for under $40. Should work just fine.

 

[Ozymandias]

ya the shop light idea should work and is cheap you could also build you're own hood or retro fit your current one with spiral florescent bulbs (like they have at lows or wall of mart)

 

[FastFly67]

4 foot shop light for $10
6500k sunlight bulbs, 2 pack for ~$8
the exact same set up on my 55 and my plants thrive