Hood/Light Fixture Question

[follicle]

Greetings,

I've had my 55 gallon freshwater aquarium for a while now and the hood has collected quite a collection of nasty dirt and crust that only returns a few days after cleaning it. I inherited the tank from my father, but he had it for several years before I received it. As of right now, I have a standard hood and light installed (I have two of these side-by-side: Recessed Fluorescent Hood - Black - 15 and 20H Gallon - 24 in. x 12 in.)

I had seen these types of light fixtures before and I really liked the way they looked (see here: Aqualight High Output T5 Dual Lamp Light Fixture - Double - 48 in.).

Can anyone help explain the benefits/pitfalls of a light fixture like this? I'm referring more to the manner in which it is mounted. The hood/light I have now completely seals the tank, but these seem to hover above the tank. I know fish leaping out of the tank could be a possible issue, but the only fish that was in danger of doing that (my African Butterfly Fish) recently died. I can't seem to find any flat out answer on the net as to what (if any) advantage there is to this setup.

Any input?

Thanks in advance for any replies!

 

[BillD]

By sitting above the light will disperse a little better, and you can mount it in the centre. normally, glass tops are used in conjunction with these. I don't know of any fish that is jump proof.