Getting Started - Selecting a Lid, Light & Heater
Tip: Choose a glass lid if you have the option. It seals the tank better than plastic.
Hood and Lid
Often when you purchase an aquarium you will get a package that includes the lid, light, and possible a filter. While this may be economical, it may or may not be the best choice (largely depending on the store that puts the package together). It's wise to at least be aware of the various options before buying a package. As a rule lids are sold combined with a light, which is collectively referred to as the "hood". However they are actually two parts - the aquarium lid, and the light. The lid covers the tank and serves to prevent fish from jumping out of the tank, reduce evaporation, and protect the light from getting wet. Hoods may be made of plastic or glass. Plastic lids cost less, weigh less, are unbreakable, and generally cost a bit less. Glass lids are easier to clean, provide a tighter cover which reduces evaporation, and allow more outside light to enter the tank. My personal preference is for glass, but either type will work. Keep in mind that the better the lid fits, the less evaporation, and less chance of fish jumping out. So take a moment to check how well the lid fits before laying your hard earned dollars down at the cash register. Figure 1 below shows a typical glass lid with light, Figure 2 shows a typical plastic lid with light, and Figure 3 shows an all in one system (which I'll discuss shortly).
 Figure 1 |
 Figure 2 |
 Figure 3 |
Tip: Select a fluorescent fixture (not incandescent), and a "natural daylight" bulb. Comparison shop at hardware stores for bulb prices.
Light
Although the light is generally packaged with the lid, you may have to (or want to) purchase the light separately. Light options include, incandescent, halogen, fluorescent, mercury vapor, and metal halide. If you are interested in reading more about the different types of lights, the best article I've seen is by Richard Sexton (see Net Links below). The two basic types you will see in the pet shops are incandescent and fluorescent. Incandescent bulbs cost less to purchase, but cost more to use. They also give off a great deal of heat, which can affect the temperature of the tank. Fluorescent bulbs cost less to run, are cooler, and are my personal choice. There are a variety of types, that cover a range of the light spectrum. For the beginner I strongly recommend getting a "daylight" bulb - but before you buy one at the pet shop, check out your favorite hardware or lighting center. They often have the same thing at a lower price.
