Apex Seasonal Lighting Variation

[Enigma]

Is anyone using the sunrise/sunset feature on their Apex to control lighting?

I've done some reading, and I know that e seasonal variations are based on a latitude of 15 degrees (don't know if this is north or south, or how much that matters).

I'm thinking that I mignt like to switch to using the seasonal variations to control lighting, but I'm not 100% sure.

I have a mixed reef, and I'd like to do ths if it would be beneficial to both the corals and the critters.

Comments? Suggestions?

[Cal_stir]

couldn't see it hurting, i have a reefkeeper and would use it if it had it.

[Aquattro]

I can't see the benefit to the critters, and I know the stress of trying to figure out why my lights didn't work properly. I ended up switching to a timed cycle.

[Enigma]

I know the LSM is "supposed" to help with spawning behaviours. I'm not sure if there would be a benefit to having the daylights on seasonal sunrise/sunset.

How were your lights on for when you were using it, Brad? I know it would vary. I just don't know by how much.

[whatcaneyedo]

Light 1
If Sun 120/-120 Then ON
Light 2
If Sun 180/-060 Then ON

I've been using it for a few years. They're on for around 8-9 hours a day and the change over the course of the year isn't significant. I don't feel that it does anything special for the tank nor does it harm it. I simply wanted to use the option because it was there. The seasonal temperature fluctuation on the other hand may have adversely effected the tank while I was using it. So recently I went back to a steady 78F.

[Aquattro]

Originally Posted by Enigma

How were your lights on for when you were using it, Brad? I know it would vary. I just don't know by how much.

I only used it for a week. First I couldn't figure out the offset properly, so lights were coming on early, ramping up by 10am, staying on too long, etc.

It was just easier for me to set times and ramps manually. I have nothing that I want spawning, so no advantage at all.

[Enigma]

Thanks for the info!

I hadn't thought about a change in lighting intensity. My t5 fixture won't support that. Perhaps I should do some more reading.

I have learned that at 15 deg N the day fluctuates between 11-13 hours over the course of the year.

I was running a 12 hour light cycle, but then I cut it back to 10. My SPS are now browning, so I may have to boost it back up again until we get our LED build done (which has dropped off the radar for the time being).

I did consider the seasonal temperature option . . . But I'll avoid that.

[PoonTang]

I use it but only on my my pc lights. My MH lights just run for a set 10 hours.