Setting up new marine tank...when to add T5 HO lighting?

[newreefer_59]

Have added salt + live rock about 3 weeks ago and letting tank cycle. Is the lighting required yet? It is T5 high output lighting and was planning to add the lighting once I start with coral, etc. That ok?

[SeaHorse_Fanatic]

Any polyps or stuff on the live rock that need light?

It probably wouldn't hurt to turn on a couple of bulbs for a few hours a day at this point. With good LR fresh from the ocean, you'd be surprised at the hitchhikers that spring back to life out of your LR.

Anthony

[Trigger Man]

For me I waited 5 weeks before turning on my lights, but if you do turn on your lights watch for signs of algae starting to take over. Even after the 5 weeks you would be suprised how many hitchhikers came out.