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What is the proper lighting system for my aquarium?

To answer the above question, first ask yourself: What aquatic lives do I want in my aquarium?

If you will keep:

1). Freshwater fish only - you need just a normal fluorescent light, no more than 2 watts per gallon.

2). Freshwater live plants mainly -  You need 2 to 3 watt per gallon, bulb Kelvin rating ranges between 6,500K to 10,000K. If your tank is deeper than 28" and your plants are dense, add one more watt per gallon. Multiple fluorescent bulbs, power compact fluorescent, HO, or VHO fluorescent can be used. You can also use metal halide in lower Kelvin rating.

3). Saltwater fish only - you need about 2 watts per gallon. A normal fluorescent lighting fixture, or a power compact fluorescent fixture, in the 6,500K to 10,000K range, is usually enough. If you keep algae-consuming animals (blenny/snail/sea star/urchin etc.) and your tank is deeper than 28", you can add additional 1 watt per gallon and next higher Kelvin (K) level. 

5). Saltwater reef inhabitants consisting corals that require intense light (such species are usually colorful stony, hard corals. Most aquarium anemones and clams are also high-light demanding) - An aquarium containing such animals is also called a "true reef tank". You need between 4 to 8 watts per gallon and 10,000K to 20,000K to achieve the intensity and photosynthetic radiation to benefit these marine creatures. Metal halide system is the best choice. An supplement actinic blue light that is on for night time is highly recommended. View such lighting systems [here].

View reference: Lighting Choose Chart

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