What is the optimum duration for SPS light cycle

[threebuoys]

For quite some time I have fought a severe dino problem. I have used multiple processes including the blackout routine multiple times. Since the last routine, the dinos seem to be slower in their return but I'm not ready to declare victory yet.

Once I get the dinos under control, for how long should I set my daily lighting cycle?

I'm guessing that a shorter cycle than what I previously used might help control dinos going forward. I also recognize SPS corals require higher intensity lighting to be healthy.
So, what's the right balance to get the best SPS results without encouraging rampant dino reproduction?

 

[BryanM]

The right thing to do is fix the dino issue so you do not have to compromise on what your livestock need.

I hate dinos, I fought with them for months. It is a royal pain.

 

[Red_Beard]

Any photoperiod that would get good acro growth will also be more than enough for dinos.

My photoperiod is 12 hours, 6 at full tilt and 3 on either end to ramp up and down.

 

[threebuoys]

The right thing to do is fix the dino issue so you do not have to compromise on what your livestock need.

I hate dinos, I fought with them for months. It is a royal pain.

I agree that's the best solution. I've fought them for 18 months. But I'm fearful they will return if they are truly gone. I don't want to encourage them!

 

[threebuoys]

Any photoperiod that would get good acro growth will also be more than enough for dinos.

My photoperiod is 12 hours, 6 at full tilt and 3 on either end to ramp up and down.

That's what my photo period was for several years until the dinos wiped out much of my coral. I fear they may return since it's only been two weeks since my last round of treatments ended. Don't want to encourage them!

 

[BryanM]

I agree that's the best solution. I've fought them for 18 months. But I'm fearful they will return if they are truly gone. I don't want to encourage them!

Completely understand. I was depressed dealing with mine for so long.

I'm in the camp that believes bottomed out nitrates or phosphates can give you a dino outbreak.

I stayed cautiously optimistic for a month when I saw the tide turning. I would do the same if I were you and just keep monitoring.

But trying to control dinos long term by using less light is just going to hurt the critters

 

[Red_Beard]

I agree. Light isn't the root of the issue. What are your nutrient levels running at, did they bottom out maybe? It can take some time to get your biome balanced back out. You could run a reduced light cycle for a bit though while you are battling it out and limp your acros through.

 

[reefpanda]

Just curious did you happen to dose phytoplankton before you had dinos?

My lights run for 12 hours with 8 hours peak