Re: RM...........here are some links to some good sites that have the proper bulbs

On Tue, 25 Dec 2007 07:40:31 -0800, AquariumFatasies wrote:

>  I'll bet you a coffee that proper bulbs (no
> more than 2x40Watters of the correct kelvin temps and "PROPER"
> reflectors will be more than enough light for "ANY" Freshwater plants
> you can possibly grow in a 55 gal tank.

I'm not so sure about that.  They may be sufficient at first, but light
output seems to drop off fairly quickly.  I've had good luck with the
proverbial 2 watts per gallon in tanks of normal depth.

Even then I'd use the Tropica website and stay away from any plants they
describe as needing high light.

As far as a homemade reflector, I used aluminum fla****ng in a couple of
homemade hoods.  Certainly no work of art, but seems to work.  Just make
sure the fla****ng you buy is polished on at least one side.