Aquarium light fixtures range from a single plain fluorescent tube to combination metal halide and very high output VHO fluorescents with very high price tags. For your first tank you can get by with the simpler equipment. Here is an overview of the available lighting options for your aquarium.

Fish-Only Aquariums
An aquarium that is not going to house any live plants can be illuminated with a standard aquarium light fixture, usually housing a normal output fluorescent tube that enhances the natural beauty of the fish.

Just as there are different types, there are different types of aquariums. the purpose for which a tank is being setup can affect the system as much as will the types of fish being included. some of the following setups are unlikely to be first tanks, but all of them could be.

Any division of aquarium types is going to be arbitrary to the extent that many people want to have tanks that serve several functions. the following list of fish tank types is meant to present the various options and functions as independently as possible the list can be mixed and matched.

Setting up a saltwater aquarium does not take a lot of effort other than preparation. Choose your tank material, size and style. Choose system set up such as filtration, lighting and power. Choose your substrate nitrogen cycling process. Choose the fish species and learn how to care for each type.

Choose care items, reef, plant life etc. Learn about fish disease, care and treatment. Learn about water PH and temperatures needed. Once these areas are completed you can begin the true set up process. You will first want to clean your aquarium with freshwater and a sponge.