Getting back into the hobby

E_williamson1597 · Apr 1, 2019

So I got my Innovative Marine 20 gallon out of the garage and set it back up. My question is about lighting and acclimating corals. I picked up a few small $5 frags from a LFS, all their tanks are lit by Radion XR30s and I have a dinky little 24” current USA LED setup that still works after years of not using it. Should I be starting my lighting at a decreased intensity and length of time? I really want to upgrade the lighting but can’t really spend the money until after my wedding next year (priorities right?).

Retro Reefer · Apr 1, 2019

Welcome to the forum! With that light I would go ahead and set it to whatever you plan on running it at, no need to start with lower intensity or shorter schedule.

BestMomEver · Apr 1, 2019

Welcome to the reef! If memory serves me, those lights are not very intense. I would blast the corals.

Ruben's Reef · Apr 1, 2019

!!! Welcome to R2R !!! Also depending on what corals you have.

Billldg · Apr 1, 2019

Welcome to R2R!!! Welcome back to the hobby!!!

E_williamson1597 · Apr 1, 2019

Little more info on the corals, they are zoas and favia.

Js.Aqua.Project · Apr 1, 2019

Welcome to R2R!

I always recommend acclimating corals to your light. I don't necessarily recommend adjusting your light intensity, but that you start corals down on the sand bed and then move them up to where you want them over a few weeks.