Neptune Systems GRO Refugium Light - Pipe Bracket Maintaining low nutrient levels is key to a healthy and algae-free marine aquariumSome 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 specialised, 20W LED light designed to grow many types of common macroalgaes (i.e. Chaetomorpha) using a specialized light spectrum which maximises 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 colours create an evenly distributed spectrum optimized for macroalgae growth. Two key wavelengths for algae photosynthesis are emphasised — 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 18x24Round, 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, maximising 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. REDUCE YOUR NUTRIENTS, THE NATURAL WAY, WITH A REFUGIUM It’s easy! Growing and harvesting macroalgae in a compartment in your sump, or in a full-blown refugium, is the natural way to reduce unwanted nutrients in your reef aquarium. It also creates a home and reproductive area for beneficial micro-fauna that consume waste and provide a food source for corals and fish. Growing macroalgae opposite your normal light cycle (called reverse daylight photosynthesis or RDP) also helps raise and stabilise your aquarium pH.Only three things are necessary to get started: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 optimised 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 minimises nuisance algae growth in other areas of your sump due to light spillage. EASY PLUG AND PLAY SET UP 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 MACROALGAE 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 LED, 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. HIGHLIGHTED FEATURES: 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 1.41 (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 REQUIRES: An available, powered, DC24 port in your Apex Ecosystem OR Optional 24V power supply to run standalone - SOLD SEPARATE INCLUDES: GRO LED Light Flexible gooseneck mount Mounting bracket - flat clamp
