South American Biotope Lighting

[m1lky12]

Hi, I recently posted a topic about my South American biotope on the general tropical discussion page but didn't get a great deal of replies. One of the thing's I asked about was lighting for my tank and how to create a 'shadowy shimmer' effect, I've read that light unit would need to be a little further from the water level in order to create this so that would mean purchasing a new light unit that either hangs from the wall or is fixed to the tank. Now what I would really appreciate is if someone could advise me and point me in the right direction to a good option for this. I don't know whether a whole light unit with florescent lights, LEDS or perhaps even several lamp spotlights attached around the tanks rim would be the best option? Even just some advise on how best to create this natural setting would be much appreciated.
 
On the other hand if this option ended up being a little too pricey what would be my best bet in terms of replacing my florescent tubes which came with my 2nd hand tank and at least one of the three has died so I'd change them all.
 
Just some info on my tank which may be useful in this;
 
175L
Aqua One UFO 700 corner tank - Online dimensions seem to be wrong but my measurements are roughly;
                                                                                   -60cm back to front
                                                                                   -100cm from left to right
                                                                                   -54cm of water and substrate
Water will be further tannin stained with Indian Almond Leaves,
Lots of bogwood and wood hanging down from top,
If any plants are put in they will be sparse and low light needed (Vallis, Swords),
Will have Amazon Frogbit.
 
Like I said any info at all would be much appreciated

 

[DrRob]

Ahhh, blackwater. Isn't generally that great with plants, gets a bit acidic for them overall and tends to mess with the light anyway.
 
Personally I like the look with the lower kelvin lights, and not so bright. Brings out the reds well in the fish that tend to be found in those waters. How you do it depends a lot, for a hooded tank like that you're somewhat restricted unless you want pools of light and shade. Personally I'd probably just grab a warmer white tube and see how I liked the look.