Refugium Light

[MatthewLaw]

Greetings All- Do you keep your refugium light on 24/7? Or just keep it one when the display lights are on?

Thanks!!

[zenzence]

I run 12 hours reverse of my display lights, some people run 24/7

[CaptainCoral]

I also run them 12hrs opposite the display.

[Henryreef]

depends what algae you want to keep. Caluerpa can go sexual, you prevent this by running the lights 24/7. Cheato can go either way, but I don't think 24/7 is recommended or it.

[oldsaltman]

I have run mine 24/7 for over a year and the cheato grew fine. I now have them back on a 12h night cycle and the cheato still grows fine. The issue for some was #1: does cheato need any dark time? and #2: does the night time or reverse cycle help with PH issues? Other wise I don't think it matters 12h or 24h. :rolleyes:

[MatthewLaw]

hmm thanks for the help and explanation!

[Imzadi]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14717705#post14717705 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by zenzence
I run 12 hours reverse of my display lights, some people run 24/7 Why though? What is the idea behind the reversed pattern?

[WallyV]

When light hits photosynthetic organisms photosynthesis occurs, which absorbs CO2 and O2 is given off which tends to increase pH. With lights off respiration occurs from photosythetic organisms which causes CO2 to be released. The CO2 release causes pH to decrease. So by using 12 on 12 off you can (sort of) limit the pH swings in your tank. I believe this is the theory behind it, but I could be wrong. I'm sure someone will straighten me out if this is completely wrong.
-Walter