Lighting - PLEASE HELP!

[codered]

I have a 20W setup, and I'm looking to get a new bulb. What is the best one for a fish only 30G tank? I'd like it to look white (I don't like the blue bulbs).
I keep seeing 10000K, 20000K, etc. What does that mean? What spectrum of light is the best?

 

[birdy]

If you want the white look then a 10k is what you want, if you want a nice balanced white/blue then look at a 50/50 bulb.

 

[re_vogel]

Go with a 50/50. I just got one and it makes my tank look so good. Brings out all the colors...

 

[mikeyjer]

I have to agree with above 2 postings. Get a 50/50 since it's FO. :happyfish

 

[kdfrosty]

the numbers you keep seeing (10000K and 20000K etc) are Kelvin ratings. The higher the Kelvin rating, the bluer the bulb will burn. 6500K bulbs produce a yellow/white-ish color, 10000K produce a crisp white color, and 20000K produce a blue-ish hue. It also depends on the brand of bulb that you buy. A 20w 10K bulb from company "A" may look different than a 20w bulb from company "B".