is light needed to cycle?

[stealthbimmer]

Just curious if light is needed during the cycle period. I have a 75 gallon that i am setting up. I was wondering if instead of skimping on the lighting because of $$, if i set it all up and running and then buy lighting once cycle is over? This way i will have more to spend on quality lighting...

[OmegaTassadar]

No, lighting is not needed for cycling.

[skippy2]

You don't need your lights yet.

[stealthbimmer]

thanks guys...

[Ricepicker]

no lights needed, if anything, just actinics to help coraline grow, but other than that... nah

[Henry Bowman]

No lights ! Durning the cycling process the orginic waste is at it's peak. With strong lighting, you could run the risk of algae growth. Without the lighting, and with water change(s) you will lower your tank's orgainc load thus lowering the chance of algae growth. The coraline that is so coveted to cover the rock will take off later. At most...you could run the actinic lights but I wouldnt risk it. In Europe, it is common for the reefkeepers to keep their tanks in the dark and fallow for months before stocking and running their lights.

[skippy2]

Don't do your water change to soon though. You would only be prolonging your cycle. What I did after amm. and nitrIte were at 0 is when I did my first wc. It took my tank 18 days to cycle. I then waited another month before adding any fish.

[stealthbimmer]

arnt u supposed to wait til nitrates r at 0 as well?

[demonsp]

Its good to start with mb 1 hour a day and bring up slowly. This will help adjust and keep algea blooms to a minimum.