2 Light Cycles

[Chris0422]

Have read about having 2 light cycles per day. Lights on in the morning then having a 4 hour break with lights off to allow co to build up again. Then having the lights on for another 4-5 hours. Anyone try this?

 

[DrRob]

I've tried it. It's said to reduce algae but I've not really experienced that. The general consensus I've seen is that it doesn't really work and tends to mess up high tech regimes (although that is still doable).
 
Mainly I found the best use was when I was around at lunchtime and out until early evening. Meant that I actually got to see my fish.

 

[dgwebster]

I'm about to introduce a light cycle that goes lights off - lights on - even more lights on - some lights off - lights out.

Essentially low level <1 wpg for "daytime" racking right up to about 3wpg for high noon impact.

 

[DrRob]

Dawn/dusk simulations. Kind of.

 

[Zikofski]

this is interesting and have also wondered about doing this my self but the only issue i see is, altho when your light is off, there is still ambient light in the room even tho its not bright enough it still enough for the plants to go hey there is light here. i am growing moss submersed on the other side of the house in shad effectively normal room ambient light, so even tho we have a photo period of say 6 to 8 hours the plants will from what i see will still grow be it VERY slowly during day light, if your tank is in contact with more sunlight than others then this would be increased

 

[Chris0422]

I am also worried that my fish will go nuts

 

[Sebul]

I'm about to introduce a light cycle that goes lights off - lights on - even more lights on - some lights off - lights out.

Essentially low level <1 wpg for "daytime" racking right up to about 3wpg for high noon impact.

You would think this would work the best because it would mimmick what is happening outdoors. I would think the lights changing spiratically would mess up the cycle all together. I'm not an expert though, just stating an opinion. If you know otherwise I'd like to know.

 

[SO19Firearms]

It will work so long as the total daily available CO2 doesn't drop below the total required (for the given lighting)

The question is will turning the lights off for 4 hrs allow the tank to recoupe enough CO2 to last the 2nd light cycle - and if not, will there be enough CO2 to last the 2nd cycle anyway.....
I guess you just have to have an idea what's going on and don't have too much light - If you subscribe to the "It disrupts algae" balls you're destined to fail, but that doesn't sound like the case here - Give it a try.


IMO

 

[Chris0422]

After about a week of 2 light cycles per day I have noticed 2 things. 1st it has not affected plant growth in any way. 2nd the algae growth has slowed almost to a stop. So seems like a plus so far.