Lighting times for newly started tank?

[jamesfrancishill]

Hello I have just setup my tank, put sand salt and live rock into it but am wondering about lighting. Do I need to keep the light on all day every day or is it at just during he day, help please!

 

[melosu58]

Lighting needs to be just like nature. Several hours on and several hours off. I do mine 12 on and 12 off.

 

[mrg02d]

Sounds like you are starting your cycle. If so, leave the lights off for now. No need to start a war with algae right from the start.

Matt

 

[melosu58]

Yes did not see you were just starting. During the cycle you dont need lighting. Sorry about that.

 

[jeffwisely]

yeah when you are starting your cycle you don't need to have you lights on at all but after your cycle do a 12/12 or less like 10/14 or 8/16

 

[jamesfrancishill]

How long shall I leave the lights off for as I'm doing my cycle?

 

[mrg02d]

Youll want to leave them off until the cycle is over. Count on about a month if your rocks are live. Maybe a little sooner if you have a good bit of cured rock in there.

Matt