What lighting do I need for a reef aquarium?
The right lighting depends on what you plan to keep. For soft corals and LPS corals like those sold at Coral Cavern (Goniopora, Blastomussa, Elegance, Brain corals), moderate lighting in the 100 to 200 PAR range works well. SPS corals typically need 200 to 350+ PAR at the coral placement level.
Modern LED fixtures are the most popular choice for reef tanks. They offer controllable spectrum, intensity scheduling, and energy efficiency. Look for lights with a good mix of blue, royal blue, violet, and white channels. Start at lower intensities and gradually ramp up over two to four weeks to let your corals adjust. We recommend a photoperiod of 8 to 10 hours per day, with a ramp-up and ramp-down period that simulates sunrise and sunset. If you are unsure about your specific setup, contact our team for personalized recommendations.
