Changing Florescent Light Bulbs

[Deleted User]

Hi, Folks --

I've read that our fish's lights should be changed once a year. Is this the case if you do not have planted aquariums? Or does it only apply if you are also maintaining live plants in addition to the fish?

Thanks!
Jill

[gm72]

If the tank isn't planted and you aren't experiencing any algae problems then changing the bulbs is not necessary. Now, there will be some folks who might say that fish require a certain light for good health but I am not aware of any research to confirm or deny such a belief. I have had the same bulbs on one of my non-planted tanks for about 5 years. No problems.

[Algenco]

fish don't require light, keep your bulb.
In a planted tank T5 bulbs don't lose output like T12, with a T5 you can use it until it quits with negligible loss of spectrum or intensity

[Deleted User]

Sounds like a plan! I have some algae issues in my 10g's with bettas (3 bettas / divided), but these tanks and lights are only a couple months old. I'm thinking they're getting more sunlight during the day than I'd otherwise suspected.

So far, you advice confirms what I basically thought. I know from a previous thread, most feel the fish don't even need the lights (they're for our enjoyment) and since all my plants are plastic, I was figuring that i may not need to replace until they burn out.

Thanks, guys!