PAR meter use for corals

[stormbolt]

Just got a PAR meter and trying to figure out the best spots for my corals. My tank's a 40-gallon with AI Prime lights, running at 60% intensity. Got some Zoanthids, Acans, and a small Montipora. Anyone got tips on ideal PAR ranges for these guys?

[whiskerboy]

Zoanthids and Acans are pretty chill, they'll do fine around 100–150 PAR. Montis can handle more, like 200–250 if they're higher up. What's your light schedule like? I've got a similar setup with a 20-gallon, running my lights at 70% for 8 hours.

[finnley]

Yeah, Montis love the light, but don't go too crazy too fast. I fried mine once by cranking it up overnight. Not a vibe. How's your flow? They like a bit of movement too.

[heartfelt]

Zoanthids and Acans are pretty chill, they'll do fine around 100–150 PAR. Montis can handle more, like 200–250 if they're higher up. What's your light schedule like? I've got a similar setup with a 20-gallon, running my lights at 70% for 8 hours.

Agreed on the PAR ranges. I'd also check your alkalinity and calcium levels if you're tweaking light intensity. My Montis started bleaching when my alk dropped below 8 dKH.

[vessel]

My Acans actually do better at the lower end of that range, like 80–100 PAR. They're in a shaded spot under a rock ledge. Maybe try moving yours around and see how they react?

[Mavyn]

PAR meters are game-changers, dude. I used to eyeball it and my corals were just surviving, not thriving. Now I've got my SPS at 300 PAR and they're growing like weeds. What salt mix are you using? Some brands can affect how your corals handle light.

[stormbolt]

Thanks for the advice, everyone. Gonna tweak my light settings and keep an eye on the Monti. I'm using Red Sea Coral Pro salt, seems to work well so far.

[Savoye]

Red Sea's solid. Just make sure your magnesium's in check too. Low mag can mess with coral coloration under high light. What's your tank temp? Stability's key when you're adjusting PAR.

[Fableon7]

PAR meters are game-changers, dude. I used to eyeball it and my corals were just surviving, not thriving. Now I've got my SPS at 300 PAR and they're growing like weeds. What salt mix are you using? Some brands can affect how your corals handle light.

Totally agree. I switched to Tropic Marin and noticed better polyp extension after dialing in my PAR. How often are you testing your water?

[midnight]

My Zoas are happy at like 50 PAR, but they're in a nano with weak lighting. Maybe some strains are just more adaptable? What color are your Acans? Darker ones might need less light.