Light,and star

Question
Hello I have a 29 gal saltwater aquarium that I have had set up for just a
week. I have live Rock and I've noticed that there's alot happening with
growth, I heard that you should only leave the light on for a certain
amount of time, is that true and how long should it be on? And we also
noticed what I believed to be a very tiny brittle star, I think it hitchhiked on
the live rock because the rock is from Fiji. Do I have to feed it anything
and if I do what and when should I start?  

Answer
Hi Moises Hernandez,

Regarding your lighting cycle for your aquarium:

A good range to aim for would be anywhere from 6 to 12 hours. Remember that fish like and need to rest just like other animals. Fish only setups could range from 6 to 12 hours, reef tank setups and freshwater planted aquariums could range from 10 to 12 hour photo periods.

Regarding a Brittle Sea Star Diet:

In the aquarium it may be fed zooplankton, very finely chopped meaty items, and liquid invertebrate foods.

Since the specimen you mentioned is very small, I would recommend, that if you do attempt to feed it, make sure you give it very minute portions. You don't want to upset your water parameters, especially since your aquarium is only a week old.

Regards,
Dave

All Experts - Editor

http://www.ocreef.com - Director