55 Gallon First Timer ~~ Here we GO.=]

[kien]

No need to run lights during the cycle :-)

[RDNanoGuy]

1. Don't run your lights during the initial cycle. This will help discourage unwanted algae. After the intial nitrate peak ramp up your lights and use some purple up to encourage desirable coralline algae. Getting some coralline scrapings from a mature tank can accelerate this.

2. There are a few good choices of macro algae for your refugium. Google is you friend here. Avoid Caulerpa unless you want to do a 24 hour lighting regime to prevent it turning sexual. Cheato is a good choice.

3. Ph is important for any tank the ideal range for reef aquaria is 8.1 to 8.3. Do not panic if the tank ventures out of this range a bit Ph can vary throughout the day due to co2 levels and the action of photosynthesis.

Good luck!