Lighting

[Meiko]

OK, I have read so much about lighting, that my head has a permanant throb!! :roll:

But I still have not seen anyone talk about how long should the main lights be on, how long the actinics should be on, should they be on at the same time as my MH?
Is there recommended settings, or does this vary widely depending on what kind of corrals you have?
As I am pretty new to a Reef tank, well saltwater too, I would appreciate any help.

Thanks,
MEIKO..

[gman0526]

I personally have my actinics on for 8hrs, my halides for 6hrs. Some people have their halides only on for 2 hrs. others for 12. My point is that depending on the corals and your personal preference this might vary too.

[Doctor_Reef]

Agree....It is a lot about preference....Observation, and coral types.... I run my MH 9 hrs. a day...they are 14K so I don't use actinics.... Preference.... :)

[SHANGAI]

i have 3 400w 14 k and it first turn on one then the 2 other for 12hours. during the night, moonlight.

[Meiko]

Thanks, thats what I was looking for. I have been running the actinics just a couple hours before the MH turned off, till a couple hrs after. I wasn't sure how long the corals needed them, and did not want to over do it..

[gman0526]

Whatever your lightning cycle is I wouldn't reccomend anything over 12 hrs.

[leaffish75]

Depending on what type of lights you use. Im looking into T-5 HOs for my 90 and since I'll be doing 6 bulbs i have 3 different light cycles.

[SHANGAI]

these week a made a 72 gal with 2 400w 14k coralvue , and it looks great and the clams are horizontal and they open wideee. 8 hours cycle