New Tank - What Lighting Is Required?

[Smelliot]

Hey, I've recently set up a new 120L - 30G tank I've had it been cycling now for awhile I have everything except the lights. I'm planning to have a corydoras tank with cardinals. I want a low lighting setup I've heard of the 1 watt per gallon rule. I'm still unsure of what lights to buy. I also don't want LED's as they're too expensive.  I'm going for the average Joe fluorescent globes; what I'm really trying to say is how many watts should I get for a low tech tank. Any suggestions will be much appreciated.
 
Cheers Smelliot.

 

[Lunar Jetman]

If you want low light and don't want LEDs then you could get 2x 15W tubes or 1x30W.

Based on the general calculation of 1W per gallon is low light just get a tube or combination of tubes totalling 30W

 

[MoneyMitch]

watt per gallon rule of measuring light amount is dead - only applies to old style t12 tubes. a single t8 in the 6-7.5k range will do you just fine. whatever wattage it is will be perfect for lowlight/low tech