Cycling my Tank

[wellmax]

I have read elsewhere that when cycling your tank some recommend that you don't use any lighting until your tank is cycled. Im cycling with a load of plants in the tank will my plants die without light?? and if I do put the lights on for a few hours a day will I get an alge bloom? Regards

[whetu]

I have read elsewhere that when cycling your tank some recommend that you don't use any lighting until your tank is cycled. Im cycling with a load of plants in the tank will my plants die without light?? and if I do put the lights on for a few hours a day will I get an alge bloom? Regards

Hmm, that's an interesting one. I have never heard of leaving your lights off while cycling. I would suggest that you do whatever is best for your plants - in this case turn your lights on just as you plan to do after the cycling has finished.

My reasoning is that if you want to limit algae growth long term, one of the best things you can do is to have healthy, thriving plants. They will then out-compete the algae for available nutrients from the water and keep the algae levels low.

That's just my thoughts on the matter, and someone else who has heard the recommendation about not uising lights might be able to clarify the reasoning behind it better. I'm always open to learning new things!

[phoenix44]

yes yes i agree. cycle the tank just as normal - with lights on etc. plants are your friends.

[Caryl]

That's a new one on me too! Are you cycling with fish?