LED and Photosynthesis

bluetmax · #1 12/11/2007, 04:49 PM

I found a light today at Lowe's that I would really like to use as opposed to my moonlights if it were possible. My primary reason for wanting to use it is that my tank is a cube with a metal halide pendant, and I found a very simple way to mount this, unlike the single moonlights that are available. Its an LED Accent Light that is actually designed for under cabinet use, that contains 20 individual LED lights. My question, though, is how will something like this only run at night - as opposed to the LED moonlights you can buy in any LFS - affect photosynthesis, if it will at all?

demonsp · #2 12/12/2007, 01:25 AM

Moon lights may help with coral propergation but have no affect on nutrients. Its more for a more realistic appearance and looks then coral health.

corbett_n · #3 12/13/2007, 04:16 PM

do you have a pic of the lights you bought from lowes?

J. Montgomery · #4 12/13/2007, 04:39 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by bluetmax
how will something like this affect photosynthesis, if it will at all?

That would depend upon the wavelength of the LED and it's intensity. Chances are, it's not going to be bright enough to keep your corals awake and they'll go about their night as if the LEDs weren't there at all. If the corals that normally close up at night stay open when the LEDs are on, then it's probably too much light.

Snowboarda42 · #5 12/13/2007, 08:57 PM

20 LED's in one light seems like a little much IMO...

bluetmax · #6 12/16/2007, 11:22 PM

I have looked everywhere on-line, and cannot find this light - even on Lowe's, and I purchased it at one of their stores! It's an LED Puck Light manufactured by Portfolio. Its 4.125 inches in diameter...It doesn't have any specs on any of the literature regarding intensity or wavelength. It does say that its not intended for aquarium use though. lol Everything is extending as it normally does at night however, and it was somewhat brighter than I was expecting. I put some electrical tape over some of the bulbs. Over all, I'm pleased with it. If anyone has anything to add though, I'd like to hear it.