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Hoods & Lighting An aquarium should always have a hood (cover) to: Help maintain temperature Deter evaporation Keep dust out Keep fish in the aquarium Prevent splashing

Getting Started with a Freshwater Aquarium 1. Aquarium Water 2. Choosing Freshwater Fish 3. Aquariums & Stands 4. Hoods & Lighting 5. Heaters & Thermometers 6. Air Pumps & Accessories 7. Filters 8. Gravel & Décor

Aquarium Lighting

Lighting is important because it serves two functions: to illuminate the aquarium so the fish can be easily viewed and to offer proper light energy for photosynthetic reaction in plants and algae and certain invertebrates.

There are two types of lighting - incandescent and fluorescent. Let's compare the two.

Lighting Type	Characteristics	PETCO Suggestions
Fluorescent Lamps	Are usually preferred because they provide natural light spectrum Enhance the colors of the fish Give off less heat than incandescent bulbs Supply light energy for photosynthesis Last longer Provide the ultraviolet light necessary for saltwater aquariums	Aqueon Deluxe Full Fluorescent Oak Aquarium Hoods Wave Point High Output T5 Fluorescent 2 Lamp Aquatic Lighting System
Incandescent Bulbs (primarily for home use)	Are less expensive Produce more heat Use more electricity Burn out more quickly Do not enhance the fish colors to any great degree Do not supply the proper light energy for photosynthesis compared to fluorescent lamps	Aqueon Incandescent Strip Lights Petco Incandescent Light Bulbs for Freshwater Aquariums

The recommended wattage for PETCO's incandescent light hoods is 15 watts or less. A higher wattage could damage the light hood and become a hazard.

Step 5: Heaters & Thermometers