I Surrender !

ok. I agree. Let's start over. Unfortunately, I am unable to send a pic, but I think I can answer all of your other questions. The top of the tank measures 36" x 12.5." It does indeed require a 24" flourscent pin tube.As a result, there are some dim parts @ each end.

I'm sure you have seen this kind of canopy before. It is quite common. It extends from side to side. ( the full 36" ) There is a flap in front that can be opened for feeding, etc. Behind that flap is a piece of glass, over which the light is placed. It is a one bulb set up. If I were to stay with the same setup & go with a 6500, with more watts,I'd have to change everything. The ballast in this light would not handle the additional wattage. We'd still have a one bulb set up. If I have to change, I might as well do it right so I don't have to do it again. Again, I ask for your recommendations. I have a catalogue I order from. There are T5 lights there, but we're talking $200. I'd like not to have to go there.

 

Get 36 inch 4xT5. Best

 

You should be able to fit a 36" retrofit kit in there with no problems. As stated before, the bulbs themselves are only 33-34 inches. 2 bulbs will be fine. With 4 you will need co2 and ferts and make things more complicated.

wait. Just reread your post.

So you just have the basic top that comes with the tank! I thought we were talking a wooden canopy. In that case, just go "open top" and get whatever fixture you want!

Edit: You have one of these, right?
http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl...1t:429,r:6,s:120&tx=62&ty=67&biw=1280&bih=680

 

Get a 2X39W T5HO fixture. You can use 5000K to 12000K bulbs and the plants will be fine. I would suggest using one 6500K and one 10000K bulb.

 

I hate to say it, but I think I am going to have to add some plastic to the mix. I know there are people out there who would use nothing else because of the decreased care, but I am not one of them. This may be a temporary solution, however, until I can afford to buy what I need.

 

Here ( I think ) is the description ( out of the catalogue I order from ) of the light you are saying would be good for my tank.


Product: 36" Ready Fit T5 Fixture [2 * 39w]

Item Number: LISS-00684


Description: A retro fit kit taken to the next level. Completely assembled with TEK II reflectors, waterproof end caps, and an 8' power cord. Made from rust proof aluminum. Simply mount the Ready Fit T5 into an existing canopy and it is ready to go. Features major brand ballast. Purchase your choice of lamps separately.


Price: $180.45


If you will notice, @ the end, it tells me to pick my own bulbs. I'd like ones that would give me a fantastic planted aquarium ! What would you suggest ?

 

As you all know, I have a 36" wide tank with a canopy that will only take a 24" pin flourscent tube.

People have suggested what I should have.

Is this it ?


Product: 36" Ready Fit T5 Fixture [2 * 39w]

Item Number: LISS-00684


Description: A retro fit kit taken to the next level. Completely assembled with TEK II reflectors, waterproof end caps, and an 8' power cord. Made from rust proof aluminum. Simply mount the Ready Fit T5 into an existing canopy and it is ready to go. Features major brand ballast. Purchase your choice of lamps separately.

It says MOUNT IN TO EXISTING CANOPY. Does that mean I have to order another 24" or this one ?

It is all so complicated. ( LOL )


Price: $180.45

 

That would be an excellent choice. No that means you need to make one to house it unless yours is 36" long and about 7" wide.

 

Okay..there are two kinds of canopies.

One is like this: Google Image Result for http://aquariumnetwork.net/Large/AmericanOakCanopy135_150-Cherry%5B1%5D.JPG

The other is like this: Google Image Result for http://www.pets-warehouse.com/pic-a/AAG21216.JPG (Which is what I believe you have)

In that case. The only thing you can put in there is the bulb that it will support. No room for modification. I think we were all under the impression that you had the big wooden canopy I referred to above.

BUT..since you have the plastic one..you can just toss it..and get an entire 36" t5 fixture like this: Current USA 36" Nova Extreme T-5 Fixture 2x39W 10K/Freshwater, (1128) - AquaCave

Forget the retrofit.

Sorry for the confusion!