Lights

[rickyricardo]

Curious to know the real benefits of having a light on top of your aquarium. Other than the fact that it makes viewing more pleasurable at night, or during the day for that matter, what are, if any, the benefits to the tank or to the fish. And if there are any, what is good amount of time per day to keep the light on?

 

[BushFishRox]

if you just have plastic plants and a freshwater tank then technically you dont need an aquarium light... but if you want live plants or a reef tank then you need the proper lighting.

On my 220 I have a 6' quad 36" light which I am running 2 10,000K and 2 Colormax lights which run on a timer from 8am-7pm and then from 7pm-10pm I run my old single bulb 4' light with I believe a 18,000K bulb on a timer as well...

typically you should run the light for 8-12 hour but I like to keep my flag tail busy

 

[dmed]

Light is for more than just plants. It influences fish health in many ways. In particular, light regulation is important when breeding and to enhance the coloration of fish. The optimal amount of light and optimal intensity depends on the species of fish. Generally speaking, fish that are found in shallow rivers and streams require more light than fish found in deep lakes or bottom-dwelling fish. There are resources to find out the best amount of light for your particular species, such as books, or contact a reputable breeder to get recommendations.

 

[Bethany]

it also helps regulate there day/nights, and sleeping patterns a little better. also, i ike the fact that when it's cooler out, the light slightly warms the water on the surface, keeping it from cooling down too much.

my fishes' colors change when the light is out, and they go into sleep mode 80% of the time lol