When setting up my tropical fish tank do i need to have a timer on the light?

Answer 1

Well, technically, no. You can turn the light on and off on your own whenever you want to. However, all fish sort of need the daytime/nighttime cycle and, unless your tank happens to be in direct sunlight, you should definitely have a light and preferrably a timer on it. Set the timer to go on at about 8 am and off at 8 pm. This is about enough light and you don't have to remember to turn the light on and off every day. Plus, those timers are pretty inexpensive -- I think I paid about $5 for mine. All this assumes you don't have live plants, which require stronger light for longer periods of time. I don't have live plants because they tend to be a major pain in the ****.

Answer 2

While it is not necessary to have the timer, it will prove to be very helpful. I have found that fish only require 8 to 10 hours of light a day, and if you are like me and out of the house for long periods, this will ensure that the fish get the adequate amount of light everyday. Also they will have the light turned on and off at the same times, which will improve there overall health. Fish can be similar to humans that way in needing a consistent schedule. All the accessories do add up when starting out new, but it will be worth the investment.

Answer 3

Timers are inexpensive and convenient, but not necessary. They fish don't mind living in a dimmer environment and it is only necessary if you plan on live plants. I have my salt water aquarium on a timer, but I only put my freshwater tank lights on in the evening when I am home and it doesn't bother them. The lights stay off all weekend while I am at the cottage.