DIY aquarium lighting can be fun and cost effective

 Many professionals and hobbyists find it quite rewarding to put a DIY aquarium lighting (do-it-yourself) package together.  Whether you are assembling saltwater aquarium lighting, reef aquarium lighting or freshwater aquarium lighting, you have an amazing selection to choose from.  When buying your DIY aquarium lighting, the most important thing to do first is establish a budget.  If you don’t, you will likely over spend.

Your DIY aquarium lighting package will revolve around the bulbs which are the most important piece.  If you want to keep mushrooms or other soft corals, 50/50 fluorescents are likely your best bet.  When paired with an actinic blue tube, you have the entire spectrum you need to keep your animals alive and plants thriving. 

Depending on the size of your tank, your DIY aquarium lighting may need 1 or 2 strips.  For tanks less than 40 gallons, 1 lighting strip will do.  For tanks that are 40 to 55 gallons you will like do best with 2 lighting strips.  If you have questions, check out the number of sites on line that offer a variety of aquarium plans including appropriate lighting combination.