Changing light schedules to AB+ on Hydras

SDboatguy · Mar 5, 2019

So I have a mixed tank, and I’m running 2 x B+ and 2 x C+ T 5s with my Hydra 26hds . I have been running the hydras with all channels at 100% except white (65%) and recently dropped the red and greens to about 20%. Actually had very good results for the first year or so, then had some major die off due to DINOS and a cracked return pump impeller. I’m thinking of switching the hydras to the ABS + schedule but not really sure how to acclimate it, since the most drastic change is dropping the white channel ,lowering the blues and a slight bump in V and UV. My ramps and peak periods are staying the same , to start - 5 hr ramps with a 5:30 peak on the LEDs. B+ T 5 are on for 8hrs and the C+ are on for 5 during the peak LED period.Any suggestions ?

Js.Aqua.Project · Mar 5, 2019

I usually recommend using the build in acclimation for 4-6 weeks after major lighting adjustments. Since this is a smaller one I'm sure a 2-3 week acclimation would be sufficient.

Stuartmercer · Mar 5, 2019

I have a hydra 26 and did my own acclimation setting so I could enjoy the tank with more blue so the corals pop. I kept the white down because i knew i wouldn't use white very much for my tank. all I did was add more power to the light fixture for the colors i want each day until its strong enough. I started at 50% for all but white. white was at 20%.

SDboatguy · Mar 5, 2019

Js.Aqua.Project said:
I usually recommend using the build in acclimation for 4-6 weeks after major lighting adjustments. Since this is a smaller one I'm sure a 2-3 week acclimation would be sufficient.

But wouldn’t that lower the amount of light even more? Like I said above I’m actually Lowering the white from 60% to 19% as well as lowering the blues ,green and red. And bumping the UV up from 100% to 118% I know it’s still a major change in lighting but more of a reduction than an increase.

Js.Aqua.Project · Mar 5, 2019

From my understanding, in the acclimation mode, you can set the levels to be what you have currently and they adjust to want you want during that time period. So they can acclimate "down" instead of "up".