Most freshwater aquarium tanks will come with lighting already installed, but this doesn't mean that if you want a different look you can't go for something additional.
There will be the common type of fluorescent lighting that comes in basic fish tanks, but this will only work in freshwater aquarium lighting; salt water tanks are different and require much better lighting.
You may be wondering why: in a salt water tank, there is going to be coral, and coral will thrive only if there is ample lighting.
Since our focus is on freshwater aquarium lighting however, let's talk a bit more about it.
Because with artificial lighting, some care and maintenance has to be done, and you must be ready for it as you set out to own an aquarium.
Most of the maintenance will have to do with changing bulbs, but then again this will be determined by the kinds of plants that you have in your tank if you have any at all.
Your freshwater tank can have or not have plants - that's really up to you as the aquarium keeper, but it is a big boost to the environment in your fish tank and it's advisable that you have real live plants.
Plants breathe and excrete through the biological process of photosynthesis which is light enabled.
The lights will allow the plants to take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen, naturally aerating your tank.
You need to make sure that you get the lighting right in a freshwater aquarium that has plants so that your plants can have what they need to stay healthy.
An aquarium with only fish in it does not really need very specific lighting, but do not leave your fish completely in the dark.
Fish need light - in their natural habitat, it's rarely ever completely dark.
You can switch off the lights for a few hours, but do not leave the room in pitch blackness.
That's why fluorescent bulbs are recommended for freshwater aquarium lighting - the light is on a lot and these are power efficient.
Some plants will need specialized lighting.
What you need to do before you purchase tank plants is complete some research on their needs, including how much light they need to grow.
Some need more than others.
You've seen plants like that on land too, those that are inside don't grow if they don't get lots of sunshine.
As much as possible, let your freshwater aquarium lighting mimic natural light, again for the sake of the plants.
There is no harm in the occasional light that gives a dazzling display of your fish tank contents, but when you are done remember to take it back to the normal and close to natural light.
You should always look for a light that will shine all over your tank - that's across from one end to the other and all the way to the bottom.
Most lighting will come already attached to the aquarium lid and will have already been measured for you.
You will need to change the bulbs every 8 months or so and replace them with new ones - use this time to check on the wiring and make sure that there is no damage.
If you are not sure about any aspect of your freshwater aquarium lighting, its best that you consult with your pet store or ask someone who has been keeping aquariums for a while.
You can also search the internet for answers.