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1 Introduction
The Red Sea MAX approach to the coral reef experience is to
replicate a natural marine environment as faithfully as possible.
In the ocean coral reefs flourish only where specific physical
conditions prevail, such as sufficient light, adequate current,
stable temperature and water clarity. The Red Sea MAX provides
a system that creates these conditions allowing you to keep a
thriving, healthy reef aquarium in your own home.
Lighting
Light is the primary energy source in a coral reef ecosystem.
Some of the reef organisms such as macro-algae, phytoplankton
and zooxanthellae symbiotic algae convert the light into chemical
energy that other reef inhabitants consume in turn. Invertebrates,
such as corals and anemones, rely on sufficient light to promote
photosynthesis. These photosynthetic invertebrates harbor
symbiotic algae called zooxanthellae that consume the nitrogenous
components and carbon dioxide (CO
2
) from the coral, converting
it into nutrients and oxygen for the coral itself. The spectrum of
light is of paramount importance because those wavelengths
(colors) of light found at the natural depths of reefs maximize
the ability of the zooxanthellae to photosynthesize.
The intensity of the light is also important, though it is impractical
for a home aquarium to provide the high light intensity present
in natural reefs. As a general rule, a light intensity of 1 watt per
liter of water is sufficient for marine invertebrates.
Red Sea MAX
As with most other organisms fish and invertebrates require both
light and dark periods for healthy biological functioning. The
photoperiod needed for photosynthesis is 10-12 hours.
The Red Sea MAX features a complete reef spec lighting system,
including 2 high-intensity, 55-watt T5 power compact, fluorescent
bulbs with a high-polish, textured aluminum reflector, designed
specifically to attain the lighting requirements for a healthy reef
ecosystem. The MAX provides a light intensity (lumens) of 11,600
lux of clear blue sky color (10,000K) with a 1:1 ratio to pure actinic
blue (420nm wavelength peak) to enhance the growth and health
of even the delicate stony corals (SPS) and duplicate the magnificent
fluorescent colors of the reef invertebrates. The lighting comes
with a built-in 24 hour timer to ensure a consistent photoperiod.
Two blue LED moonlights complete the
natural environment.
Water movement and circulation
Water movement constitutes another critical physical parameter
in reef aquaria. The extensive biological effects of currents,
specifically their role in transporting nutrients and oxygen, make
them crucial for static coral reef species. Water flow increases the
food supply, fuels metabolism, promotes gas exchange and
improves enzyme action and respiration, calcification and
photosynthesis rates. At the same time it provides proper flushing
of mucus, decreasing disease, and sedimentation damage.
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