Lights

Lighting does more than just let you see your fish—it helps create a natural environment inside your aquarium. Fish rely on a day–night cycle, and if you keep live plants, they’ll need the right light to grow and thrive. The type of light you choose really depends on your setup: some plants need stronger lighting that can reach the bottom of deeper tanks, while simple setups may only need a basic fixture. When shopping for a light, check the size of your aquarium and how the unit attaches. Many lights come with extendable brackets to fit across the tank, while others are designed to sit neatly inside a hood. If you want to go a step further, some models even offer built-in day–night cycles, which can make your fish feel more at home and bring out natural behaviors you might not otherwise see.