urchin in fuge

I agree with Todd...IME, reverse lighting typically results in better macro growth, altho lighting a fuge 24/7 doesn't hurt the macro.

The reason some peeps recommend 24/7 lighting is to RETARD the growth of some of the fast-growing species (e.g., C. racemosa, C. taxifolia, etc.) that have a tendency to go sexual. If these species are never allowed to go into normal respiration, they don't overgrow, and as a result, tend to not "go sexual" due to being "smothered".

 

its led lit. For kicks and gigs I did a par test on the light. 2000 at the water surface where the chaeto is. I would think that light is sufficient. its around 6000K temp

 

I just switched a couple days ago from 24/7 to 12/12. Before that I had changed my 24/7 light from a 6500k cfl bulb to a 25 watt Jbj light
Amazon.com: JBJ 25 Watt Macro-Glo Adjustable Refugium Light: Pet Supplies
The I guess the Jbj light is more powerful because in the several days I was using it 24/7 my chaeto turned a brown/red color. I've never had luck with it growing so hopefully 12/12 will work for me.

 

+1

I personally wouldn't put any algae eaters in a refugium (except maybe some film algae eaters like snails). It kinda defeats the purpose of having the refugium if the algae in it is getting eaten.