When is the best time to light?

[JamesMJ2]

Since I live in CA I generally run my light from 6pm-1am. I was curious though if it's better and more natural to have the light on when the sun would be shining, Say 10am-5pm. I noticed that fish don't really sleep, although the loaches will take naps. Anyways let me know what you think.

 

[wabyrd]

I run my lights from 8AM-11PM. Fish seem very healthy except for my recent loss of several fish discussed in another thread.

 

[tkos]

Fish need some night time as do plants. I guess it would depend on how much extra light they get during the off light time. I run my lights from 11am-11pm as I live in a basement apartment and that is really the only light my plants will get.

 

[JamesMJ2]

The wall that my tank is on, faces a small window which is usually shaded. Problem is here, that if you have lights on during the day there is a good chance of a brown out, or black out. Also electricity is cheaper during the off peak hrs.

 

[tkos]

You will probably be fine leaving you lights on in the evening if that is the case. I see you have swords which tend to be forgiving plants so I would do what makes you comfortable.

 

[d9hp]

I run my lights 11-11

 

[EMS503]

Leave your lights on for 10-12 hours, The time of day is up to you I have mine on timers and have them come on when I am home so I can enjoy my tanks. Fish and plants do need a day/night cycle.

John