Tank Lighting

[clancaster23]

I had an unknown bulb in the tank light I bought from someone. There are no markings on it so I don't know any of the ratings of it but it seemed to do pretty well. I was reading that a light around 10000k rating was ideal for africans. I went and bought a Coralife Actinic 03 Blue 40 watt bulb. put it in and it seems a little darker than I'd like. You don't see the fish as well with the lack of light. Should it be like this or should I stick with the brighter one? Also, will the background have any kind of effect on the lighting? I have one now that has some coral stuff on it. Wouuld a solid black one help with the blue light any or just stick with the original bulb?

Some pics for comparison:

New Coralife bulb:
http/i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn124/clancaster23/HPIM2139.jpg

Old bulb:
http/i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn124/clancaster23/HPIM2140.jpg

 

[Redrum]

yeah that looks a bit dark and blue.

i like the old bulb better thats how mine is but its brighter and almost washes out the color at times

 

[rebrn]

The old bulb definitely looks brighter. I would say that for ascetic purposes the old bulb would be best, but not sure which one is better for the chilids.