Yeah, it's the hood and neon that came with the Aquarium, I think it's
20W, but I don't have the specs anymore

It probably is. That's less than one watt per gallon - very low light.

As I said, the test kits are not super precise and the 0.6ppm value
for amonia could be less and the 0.1ppm nitrite level is actually the
first value on the chart, so it could be less or 0 as well.

Ammonia should be zero. Are you sure the test kit is accurate? I just would
not expect there to be measurable ammonia in a tank that has been set up for 15
months, that has only four mollies in it.

So what would be my first immediate step then? Change the neon for a
brighter one as soon as possible?

You can't just change the bulb. All that stuff about plant bulbs, etc., is
marketing BS. What really matters is wattage. To increase your lighting, you
have to change your light fixture. Add another bulb, or get a power compact
flourscent fixture. The easiest might be to get a twin-tube hood; it would
probably be enough light for your tank, since it's only 15" high. The kind
sold for a 20 gallon long or 29 gallon tank would probably fit your tank, too.

Alternately, you could just buy plants that are suited for a low-light tank.
Java fern, java moss, anubias, Bolbitis. They can give you a beautiful and
easy-care tank.



Leigh

http://www.fortunecity.com/lavender/halloween/881/