Lights in aquarium

[Kiwi03]

Do fish need lights on during the day and off during the night ? Does it matter ? I’m talking about the lights in the aquarium. I live in a basement apt so there’s not a ton of natural light during the day. There is some, but not a lot.

 

[Colin_T]

Aquarium fish do need a day and night cycle with at least 8 hours of darkness to sleep.

Fish don't need a lot of light during the day but if you have live plants in the tank, the plants need light. Lights can be on for up to 16 hours a day but the plants need 8 hours of rest too. Most people have the lights on for about 10-12 hours a day.

 

[Byron]

I agree with Colin. Fish are affected significantly by light and it needs to be controlled. I have posted elsewhere on why this this and the ramifications, and can provide further information if asked. But a period of total darkness (no tank light, no ambient room light, no daylight) is essential.