Neptune Systems GRO Refugium Light with Flat Bracket Mount
Maintaining low nutrient levels is key to a healthy and algae-free marine aquarium. Some of the most successful reef aquariums employ the use of a macroalgae-filled growth area or refugium for the purpose of nutrient control.
The GRO Refugium Light is a specialized, 20W LED light designed to grow many types of common macro algae (i.e. Chaetomorpha) using a specialized light spectrum and two focused wavelength bands (455-460nm and 620-670nm) for maximum algae photosynthesis. It plugs directly into any available DC24 port in your Apex ecosystem, or it can be run completely standalone.*
Features:
- Compact design to fit easily into a sump or refugium
- 84 LEDs with optimum spectrum for macroalgae growth
- Large surface area of illumination for even spread and less spillage
- Even LED light distribution to prevent hotspots
- IP64 Water-resistant design
- Can connect to any free DC24 port or operate as a standalone unit*
- Two mounting options
*Requires the purchase of a 24V power supply to run standalone
Natural Nutrient Export:
As many advanced reefkeepers have discovered, the most efficient way to reduce unwanted nutrients in your aquarium is to create a space dedicated to growing macroalgae. Macroalgae serves as both a natural nutrient exporter as well as a sheltered living and breeding area for beneficial micro-fauna. Growing and harvesting macroalgae is simple to do, with the right equipment. Only three things are necessary to get started:
- A designated space in your sump or filtration area with adequate water flow
- A starter culture of macroalgae (For example, AlgaeBarn`s Clean Chaeto)
- A proper light source, such as the Neptune GRO!
Optimal Light Spectrum, Just Where You Want It:
The GRO uses all its power to emit light in two specific wavelengths that are optimized for macroalgae growth – 455-460nm and 620-670nm. This, combined with its rectangular shape (have you ever seen a round refugium?), mean that the right light goes right where you need it, minimizing nuisance algae growth in other areas of your sump due to light spillage.
Easy Plug And Play:
Remove the GRO from the box, plug it into one of your available DC24 connections on an Energy Bar 832 or 1LINK module, select GRO from the tasks menu, and in just a couple of minutes a step by step wizard will have it set up and scheduled.
Better Growth Using Less Power:
It may seem counterintuitive – and possibly even fly in the face of some “experts” – but with far less power than its competitors, the GRO promotes thick, healthy, and abundant macroalgae growth. The GRO does this by using 84 low-powered LEDs, selected for optimal macro algae growth, and spreads them evenly across a wide, rectangular area. This enables the GRO to be placed very close to the macroalgae and increase its efficiency while minimizing wasteful light spillage.
Shape Matters:
Nearly all other refugium lights cast light in a round, conical pattern. This is not optimal since a refugium is rarely round, but more importantly light from a round, single source, creates uneven distribution of light – in other words, hot spots that stunt growth or even burn the macroalgae.
Flexible Mounting Options
The GRO has two available two different mounting options. Both utilize an 18" long, flexible gooseneck attached to one of two mounting brackets. One mounting option clamps to a flat edge such as the edge of your sump or support on your stand. The other mount cleverly clamps to a section of your hard plumbing that is 1"-1.5" in outer diameter (3/4" to 1" PVC pipe). You get to choose which mount best fits your aquarium or refugium set up – or DIY your own!