Lighting and African Cichlids

[gpaaib]

Hi Everyone,

My wife and I have pretty much decided on setting up a 90g tank that will house Cichlids from Lake Malawi. It will have plenty of rock as well as coral substrate but no plants (real anyway).

My question is, the tank we are ordering offers both a single and double lighting fixture. Will a tank mentioned above require a lot of light or will a single tube be enough?

Thanks...

Gary

 

[tarheels910]

No lighting requirements. Whatever suits you.

I would buy the single and put a PowerGlo bulb in it. Cheap and it looks great. I would only buy the double if it wasnt much more.

 

[ibr3ak]

Yep, I use a single 50/50 bulb on mine.

 

[Coler]

it's a question of taste really, where there are no plants concerned.

I advise getting the double fixture - you have more flexibility and can try out some combinations of different bulbs, see what you like.

You can even set two on separate timers, one for day and a 'moonlight' for night - it looks pretty cool.

 

[TheFanatic]

I would go with the single bulb. Reduce the potential algae. Saves electricity too...

 

[jpappy789]

I agree...completely by preference.

 

[reptileguy2727]

In a deeper tank like a 90 I would recommend the double strip. It will help penetrate all the way to the bottom. Lake Malawi cichlids will look their best under bright, full spectrum lighting. I use 50/50s, you can try others and see what brings out the best colors in them.