Krap,
Yes, plants need some time in the dark too. Respiration occurs during darkness... this is how plants use stored metabolic energy created in the plant cells during photosynthesis to create carbon structures for growth. Respiration is critical to healthy tissue creation.
While respiration does occur in concert with photosynthesis during the photoperiod, it kicks into high gear when the lights go out.
This is why your
CO2 concentration will go up at night in your tank -- respiration uses stored glucose and oxygen to produce energy, water, and
CO2.
Linear Mode
