Macroalgae scrubber (refugium) photoperiods

[canadawest]

I illuminate my refugium on a reverse lighting period as well for the following reasons:

1. I believe that plants require a certain period of "sleep" to process the photosynthetic energy they are absorbing. Several articles support this theory.

2. To allow the more nocturnal fauna (such as worms and pods) an opportunity to have darkness to be active in.

3. To maintain a more stable pH balance in my tank.

4. I have heard far more reports of macro algaes going sexual under a 24/7 lighting period than a 12/12 or reverse lighting period. The purpose of my refugium is to absorb nutrients, not to have them all released back into the water! :eek:

5. Conservation of energy. Although my lighting is only 2x13W PC lamps, that is 26Wx12 hours a day or 182.5 full days x 26W. A difference of a few $$ on my Hydro bill that I choose to save.

Just my $.02