Reef Tank Lighting

This is a confusing topic given all the different kinds of lighting available. There are three main technologies in reef aquarium lighting; VHO (very high output) florescent, Metal Halide and Compact Fluorescent systems. When designing a reef, determine what type of corals you want to keep. Then learn about their lighting needs in current books, magazines and don't forget to ask questions. Most corals photosynthesize, so providing enough light energy or wattage is your first priority.

The standard watt lights used over fish tanks and typically included with your new aquarium are insufficient in wattage. They do not provide the corals and sea anemones with the light energy they need. Lower light-loving corals (mushrooms, zoanthids, star polyp, etc.) can do very well in an aquarium that contains 2-3 watts per gallon. High-light loving corals require 4 or more watts per gallon. These corals include all small polyped stony corals, some leathers, encrusting brain corals, clams, and many others.

Your second lighting concern is the spectrum or colors the bulbs produce. The color of light should be of "daylight" spectrum with a strong presence of blue wavelength. Combinations of bulbs are generally used to achieve proper wattage and color balance. This can include mixing types of lighting systems as well, such as metal halide with VHO. One last thing, many hobbyist overlook the fact that lamps age as they burn. Old bulbs are not as intense and/or produce more yellow-red light. This spectrum does not provide the corals their proper requirements and typically promotes nuisance algae and cyanobacteria outbreaks. Make sure to change your bulbs at regular intervals. Your coral and sea anemones will be glad you did!

Lamp Replacement Schedule

Note: Replace Lamps earlier if the tank has excessive algae growth or if recommend by the manufacture.