[am3ience]

I'm converting my 55 gallon to a fish only tank from a planted. I have a GLO T5 HO dual fixture, and i'm guessing that it will output way too much light for a fish-only setup. What do people here use as a light fixture for fish-only? I don't want algae growing because of my lights. Any combo of lights I can do with my T5 fixture to be suited for fish-only?

 

[SeaHorse_Fanatic]

Take out one of the bulbs.

 

[joeyk]

You could try replacing your current blubs with lower watt output T5 bulbs.

 

[am3ience]

do you guys have any recommendations for how to filter the tank? Currently have an old rena xp3 that i want to replace.

 

[hp10BII]

I'd choose a fish type first before deciding on equipment. Algae can be handled by various algae eaters. Some fish looks better under different light spectrums. Filtration needs also depends on the type of fish - some have lighter bioloads than others - some prefer more flow, etc.

 

[am3ience]

i'm thinking a few fancy goldfish for the tank

 

[hp10BII]

To keep costs minimal, I'd reuse a lot of your old equipment then. General rule of thumb for fancy goldfish these days is 20 gallons for each goldfish - with that bioload that would mean 50% water changes weekly. More fish, more water changes - just monitor nitrates. Some algae growth is actually preferred for goldfish as a nutritional supplement, otherwise your lights are fine if they're full spectrum, at least 6500-6700K - it may enhance their colours and help them grow. Nothing wrong with your XP3, but if you want to replace - I prefer an hob for goldfish. An AC110 will give you about 10x turnover for your 55g. Bare bottom for easier maintenance, but I prefer a thin layer of sand.