PAR requirements for different corals

[Kaidoro]

I've been struggling to figure out the right PAR levels for my mixed reef. Some of my Zoas are doing great, but my Acros look kinda sad. What's the sweet spot for each type?

[tideburn]

PAR needs vary a lot. Softies like Zoas and Mushrooms can thrive at 50–100, LPS like Hammers and Torches need 100–200, and SPS like Acros demand 200–400. Make sure your light isn't too intense for the lower-demand ones.

[Davyce]

PAR needs vary a lot. Softies like Zoas and Mushrooms can thrive at 50–100, LPS like Hammers and Torches need 100–200, and SPS like Acros demand 200–400. Make sure your light isn't too intense for the lower-demand ones.

Yep, and don't forget to acclimate new corals slowly. Jumping straight to high PAR can bleach 'em.

[skymist]

I've got a Red Sea LED setup. My Acros are at 300 PAR, and they're coloring up nicely. But my Duncan's at 150, and it's happy too. It's all about placement.

[Scripta]

My tank's a mess right now. I've got a cheap light, and everything's kinda brown. Gonna upgrade soon, but I'm scared of frying my softies. Any budget-friendly options?

[sunsetkid]

I've been using a PAR meter to map my tank. It's wild how much the levels drop off near the bottom. My Zoas are on the sandbed at 80 PAR, and they're thriving.

[tideburn]

My tank's a mess right now. I've got a cheap light, and everything's kinda brown. Gonna upgrade soon, but I'm scared of frying my softies. Any budget-friendly options?

AI Prime HDs are solid for smaller tanks. You can dial in the intensity and spectrum, so you won't nuke your softies.

[Kaidoro]

Thanks for the tips, everyone. I'll try adjusting my light settings and see how it goes. Maybe move my Acros higher up.

[Davyce]

Good call. Just watch for any signs of stress. If your Acros start paling, cut the intensity a bit. Better to go slow than lose 'em.

[skymist]

Also, keep an eye on your alk and calcium. High PAR corals like Acros suck up those elements fast. My tank's alk drops like a rock if I don't dose daily.