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 is a specialized, 20W LED light designed to grow many types of common macroalgaes (i.e. Chaetomorpha) using a specialized light spectrum which maximizes photosynthesis. It plugs directly into any available DC24 port in your Apex ecosystem, or alternatively, it can also be run completely standalone (PSU WILL BE AVALIABLE SEPERATELY SOON)
Compact, flat, rectangular LED grow light measures 8.7? X 6.1? X 1.4? making it the perfect fit for the smaller refugium compartments in many modern aquariums — as well as those that wish to grow macroalgae in a separate refugium.
84 LEDs in four colors create an evenly distributed spectrum optimized for macroalgae growth. Two key wavelengths for algae photosynthesis are emphasized — 455-460nm and 620-670nm.
Large, rectangular form promotes better algae growth, while reducing nuisance algae from light spillage, as intensity is evenly spread across a refugium area that is almost always rectangular. The GRO can effectively cover a refugium area up to 18?x24?
Round, spotlight style refugium lights, often create uneven spread of intensity. This causes hotspots that lead to algae burning or stunted growth. With the GRO, the 84 LED in a rectangular form factor create even light intensity and no hotspots.
Nuisance algae on in our sumps and on our equipment is normally one of the downsides of using a refugium. Since most refugia are rectangular, the GRO projects light in a similar manner. Also, with its low-power, distributed LED design, the GRO can be placed very close to the water surface further limiting light spillage and therefore nuisance algae.
The GRO is IP64 rated which means splashes and salt spray will not take it down. This means it can safely be placed close to the water surface, maximizing light effectiveness, and reducing wasteful light spillage that often causes nuisance algae in other parts of a system.
Power the GRO using an available DC24 connection in your Apex ecosystem (on Energy Bar 832 or 1LINK module). If you do not have an available DC24 port, or you wish to use the GRO without an Apex, a power supply is available (Sold separately) so it will operate standalone.
An available gooseneck mount comes in two models: This has a traditional clamp style mount to attach it to the edge of your sump.
1. A sequestered place in your sump or filtration area that has adequate water flow.
2. A “start” of macroalgae such as chaetomorpha – get it online, from a LFS, or from a reefkeeping buddy.
3. A proper light source, like the GRO.
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 – and minimizes nuisance algae growth in other areas of your sump due to light spillage.
- Compact LED grow light with 84 LEDs in four colors, two key spectrum ranges for optimal macroalgae growth
- Large, flat area of illumination promotes better growth as it creates a much more even spread than single, spotlight-style lights.
- Distributed LED design means no light hotspots that can burn the macroalgae
- Less light spillage – IP64 water resistance means it can be placed very close to water — reducing the growth of nuisance algae elsewhere
- Two focused wavelength bands (455-460nm and 620-670nm) for maximum algae photosynthesis
- Covers a refugium area up to 18”x24”
- Plugs directly into DC24 connection on an EnergyBar832 or a 1Link module.
- Dimensions: 8.7? x 6.1? x 1.4? (light panel itself less than 1? high)
- Works with any Apex model, including the Apex Classic family.
- Operates standalone, without an Apex, with the purchase of an optionally available power supply.
- Mounts using the optionally available, flexible gooseneck, with one of two clamp styles
- An available, powered, DC24 port in your Apex Ecosystem OR
- Optional 24V power supply to run standalone - SOLD SEPARATE - https://charterhouse-aquatics.com/shop/aquatics/specialist/cables/neptune-dc24-power-supply-uk-eu
- GRO LED Light
- Flexible gooseneck mount
- Mounting bracket - flat clamp