On Tue, 25 Dec 2007 07:40:31 -0800, AquariumFatasies wrote:

I'll bet you a coffee that proper bulbs (no
more than 2x40Watters of the correct kelvin temps and "PROPER"
reflectors will be more than enough light for "ANY" Freshwater plants
you can possibly grow in a 55 gal tank.

I'm not so sure about that. They may be sufficient at first, but light
output seems to drop off fairly quickly. I've had good luck with the
proverbial 2 watts per gallon in tanks of normal depth.

Even then I'd use the Tropica website and stay away from any plants they
describe as needing high light.

As far as a homemade reflector, I used aluminum flashing in a couple of
homemade hoods. Certainly no work of art, but seems to work. Just make
sure the flashing you buy is polished on at least one side.