Adequate hardware for 55 gal

[wevie]

New to aquariums. I was recently given a 55 gallon tank.

I have the tank, stand, under gravel filter, gravel and decor. Two AquaClear 50 power heads. A simple glass top without lighting.

I know that the aquarium was run like this previously, but I want to see if I have the proper hardware before I begin. Is the filtration adequate?

As for lighting, is the lighting for more than seeing the inhabitants? Do they themselves benefit from the light? There are a lot of different lamps to choose from. What should I be looking for?

[Brhino]

your filtration requirements will depend on what you are stocking. The usefulness of an undergravel filter is often debated here - a lot of people will recommend that you remove it and get a hang-on-back filter or canister filter instead.

if you have live plants, lighting is necessary to allow them to grow, and you'll need to put some thought into buying a fixture that gives you sufficient light for whatever plants you're planning. If you don't, lighting is only for your benefit so you can feed the fish, so it's not a big deal and its up to you.