PAR Estimate Question

[J1a]

I'm sure some can tolerate that level but everything else in the tank gets fried unless of course you are pursuing a certain type of high par coral only tank system or have a large deep tank.

Actually, no. Tanks have depth, and the PAR level drops rapidly down the water column.

 

[Lavey29]

Actually, no. Tanks have depth, and the PAR level drops rapidly down the water column.

Well of course and the depth dictates what par level you need at the light source. Frag tanks require different par versus a 26 inch deep cube.

It's common knowledge that mixed reef tanks are the most difficult for par setting purposes.

 

[gbru316]

I know this is a very crude method, but I can't justify $500 for a dedicated PAR meter.

then download photone, throw your phone in a ziploc bag, and get to measuring.

 

[Scorpius]

Don't rub it in! Lol

I have a clam worth quadruple the price of a par meter. Its worth it.

 

[J1a]

Well of course and the depth dictates what par level you need at the light source. Frag tanks require different par versus a 26 inch deep cube.

It's common knowledge that mixed reef tanks are the most difficult for par setting purposes.

It's a general believe. Yes.

But If you think about it carefully, it's gonna be much harder to maintain a deep-ish tank with all "high light acros" than a mixed reef with the same tank. The depth naturally presents a range of light conditions for different corals.

 

[Lavey29]

It's a general believe. Yes.

But If you think about it carefully, it's gonna be much harder to maintain a deep-ish tank with all "high light acros" than a mixed reef with the same tank. The depth naturally presents a range of light conditions for different corals.

Yes, I agree that would be difficult to sustain as well although there are quite a few SPS that will do ok in the 200 to 250 par range so you're not limited to high light acros for the bottom.

 

[NormanB]

Thanks all, great information!

The light is 14" above the water. It's a RB V2+48, BRS recommended 16" for spread, but I haven't bothered to raise it 2 more inches.

I downloaded Photone last night and will give it a try today!

 

[NormanB]

The numbers are way different depending on the app used. All reading taken at the same location and this is what I see.

Luxmeter: 52000
Light Meter: 22000
Photone (Beta) 17000

Hmmmmm