what is the best light for a 48 gallon salt water fish tank.?

Answer 1

This will depend greatly on what you're planning to keep. As 007 daid, if you only want fish, or fish with live rock (and don't care about growth of coraline algae on the rock) you can make due with a standard fluorescent hood. If you want better growth for the coralline algae, or some less light intense corals, you can probably get by with a compact fluorescent or T-5 lighting system.

If you want hard corals, or any with high lighting requirements, you may need to use a metal halide or HQI system, or at least a combination system to get the higher output needed for them, especially considering the tank size/depth.

There is no easy "one-size-fits-all" standard, since the organisms and depth are really what determine your needs. You can take a look at some of the types available at this website: http://www.thatpetplace.com/pet/cat/info/22943/category.web Personally, I've used the Coralife Aqualight series and like it. I've also heard good reviews of the Orbits. Just remember, the better the system and higher the output, they more you'll pay. Also. factor in the need to replace the lamps at least once a year.

If you want to reduce the cost, you might try finding a used system on ebay or aquabid. Local fish clubs often have auctions that are open to the public a few times a year, and that may be another source for you. You might see if there's a club near you in this directory: http://fins.actwin.com/dir/clubs.php?c=1

Answer 2

Any flourescent light will do for a saltwater FISH ONLY tank.
I use a cheep double flourescent fixture that you can buy at Home Depot for about $15.00
You can use a Philips daylight tube and I would add an Actinic tube just to bring out more colour in the fish.
NOW for a Saltwater REEF tank, that would be TOTALY different.