Beginners Reef Aquarim Advice-Lighting

Reef Aquarium Lighting During Cycling
Here is some advice for those of you new to having a reef aquarium. This involves lighting during the cycle of your aquarium. Should you leave the lights during the cycle, should you turn them off, or should you leave them on a few hours during the day? These are good questions and hopefully it can be answered here.

An essential element for a successful coral reef aquarium is Coraline algae. If you choose to leave your lights off for the cycling process, you will not be able to establish Coraline algae, or any that you do have will die along with anything else that requires light in a reef aquarium. Having light helps with the photosynthesis process that needs to take place in your aquarium.

Length of Time Advice
Ok, now we have made it a point that you need your lights on during the cycling period, now we need to know how long should the lights be on? Should they be on for a few hours during the day or should they be left on all day long?

A good rule of thumb is to keep your lights on for about 4 hours a day during the cycling process. This will allow the Coraline algae that is still on your live rock and any other macro algae hitch hiking in, to thrive. You could extend that time to 8 hours a day if you want, but do not go beyond that time. The reason why is because things in your reef aquarium that require light also need time to sleep. Having on your light 24 hours a day can actually hinder the development of your aquarium. So limit the time during the cycle to 4-8 hours.

Reef Aquarium Lighting Advice-After the Cycle Period
So how long should you run your aquarium lights after your tank has fully cycled? The length of time for running your lights is dependent on several factors, this includes what creatures you plan to house in your aquarium, the type of lighting and intensity of lighting, etc. I run my lighting on an average of 8-10 hours per day. Some people only run them 6, some 12. It is really a matter of preference, but remember: all fish need sleep and corals that depend on photosynthesis only need so much light. Monitor your aquarium creatures and you will notice if they need more or less light. Once you have determined this information you will be able to better balance your lighting schedule.

Reef Aquarium Conclusion
The bottom line is: you need to have lighting for your reef aquarium during and after you cycle your tank. Balance your lighting schedule and don't over do it nor under do it. If you remember this reef aquarium advice for beginners, you will have a successful and flourishing reef community.