Just how dark does it need to be...

[Cuttlefish]

I was wondering how much darkness is required for algae to get a break from photosynthesis. MY refugium receives some ambient light from the room its in, not to mention some sunlight gets through the window. So how effective would it be to enclose the fuge in cardboard so its shielded from all light. Not necissary? IT wouldnt be too big of a deal to enclose it so should I?

I know during the day cycle algae produces O2 while consuming CO2 and at night its the opposite. So does more CO2 production at night provided by truer nighttime conditions benefit the system somehow or is the important that the algae gets a break? I wonder how many different ways I can ask the same question lol. Sorry heh. Anyone have thoughts on this?

[Elegance Coral]

I wouldn't sweat it. Many people run their fuge lights 24/7 with no "noticeable" problems.

[jschulzpt]

To keep my tank cooler during summer the lights are on from 9pm to 5am, I did make a homemade drawsheet cover, and I have to say that I think that things are going better (growth rate) than when it had more indirect light coming in during the day.

I did head from someone in a different group that he also keeps his refugium lights on 24/7 also.

Good luck

[cutietwo]

I don't have a refugium bump!!