PAR Question

AquaBert · Nov 29, 2023

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 · Nov 29, 2023

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 · Nov 29, 2023

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 · Nov 29, 2023

VintageReefer said:
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 · Nov 29, 2023

Reefer Matt said:
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.