PAR Question

[AquaBert]

I recently visited 3 LFS and I asked about the PAR required for my LPS corals (that I bought from them)

Each store told me they do not use a PAR meter...

I've read so many things on here about needing to understand your PAR, but how can I buy from a LFS if they dont even know their PAR? It's almost like they expect me to figure it out because "the corals will tell you if they are happy".

I'd rather purchase corals that fit within my PAR range and not just gamble. Thoughts??

 

[VintageReefer]

I have a lps dominant tank. Just got a par meter. I’m 80 in the bottom corners. Around 100 in most of the sand bed. And my highest mounted corals are around 150-180. Top of the tank near the waterline is around 220-250

I have more pics in my build thread if you want

 

[Reefer Matt]

Yeah, i think most lfs's don't par map their tanks. The reason may be because livestock moves so quickly, it doesn't get a chance to settle in. A lot of them get coral in from a wholesaler or importer, then resell the coral to customers. Not many actually aquaculture, imo.

 

[AquaBert]

I have a lps dominant tank. Just got a par meter. I’m 80 in the bottom corners. Around 100 in most of the sand bed. And my highest mounted corals are around 150-180. Top of the tank near the waterline is around 220-250

I have more pics in my build thread if you want

Thank you that would be helpful! I try not to chase a number but more understand my zones.

 

[AquaBert]

Yeah, i think most lfs's don't par map their tanks. The reason may be because livestock moves so quickly, it doesn't get a chance to settle in. A lot of them get coral in from a wholesaler or importer, then resell the coral to customers. Not many actually aquaculture, imo.

Wow, I never thought of that! Duh, no wonder they say our corals always seem happy, lol, there isn't enough time to see if they are struggling.

 

[VintageReefer]

Thank you that would be helpful! I try not to chase a number but more understand my zones.

Build Thread - 75G Reef - no skimmer, dosing, wc! Not necessary here

Tank is 75g drilled with a Trigger System sump. Primary filtration is Santa Monica algae turf scrubber. Rock was in one tank of mine for 6 years then pulled to build this tank 10 years ago. Went through several iterations of reefs in this particular tank but this is my favorite. 2+ years no...

www.reef2reef.com

 

[YOYOYOReefer]

Take your par meter to those stores if it’s that concerning.