Heating and Lighting

It is extremely important to maintain a constant temperature in your tank. In tropical areas the water temperature varies only by narrow margins from day to day, possibly only 1 or 2 degrees. An aquarium heater will be needed to maintain a temperature of 24.5 - 26 ° C (76 - 78 ° F). This temperature range is ideal for most aquarium fish species, although the requirements of some species are different.

A large tank may require two or three separate heaters to provide even heating throughout, connected to a single, external thermostat. Two or three heaters are no more extravagant than using one as with thermostatic controls they are in operation for far shorter periods of time and are therefore less liable to failure.

Heaters are available in different wattages to suit tanks of differing sizes. Although heaters are available with thermostats incorporated in them, it is a wise precaution to have a separate thermometer from which the tank temperature can easily be seen. It should not be positioned directly above the heater. Heaters with reliable controls are essential if the temperature is to be maintained within close limits.

Always take safety precautions before touching your electrical equipment. Turn off the power before making adjustments. If in doubt, consult a qualified electrician.

Lighting in your tank is essential if you are to show your fish to their best advantage. The hood covering the aquarium hides the lighting fixtures from view and serves to point the light downwards. A wooden top can easily be made by the home handyman and the inside surface can be covered with baking foil to reflect the light. Remember that this foil may also conduct electricity so it is important that your lamp holders are adequately insulated.

It is better to use warm white or white tubes which provide a much more pleasant light than daylight tubes. If the tank is placed in a position where it will benefit from 2 or 3 hours of diffused sunlight daily, this is a great help in promoting plant growth.

Ordinary light bulbs can be used instead of tubes. Two 40 watt bulbs is normal for a tank of 24in x 12in x 15in (60cm x 30cm x38cm).