Lighting

The Importance of Lighting Equipment in Aquaculture and Public Aquariums

Lighting plays a fundamental role in aquaculture and public aquariums. It influences the growth, reproduction, and well-being of aquatic organisms while enhancing the visitor experience in exhibitions.

In Aquaculture: A Key Factor for Productivity

In aquaculture facilities, lighting is used to:

• Stimulate growth and reproduction: Light affects the biological cycle of fish and invertebrates by regulating their circadian rhythm and hormone production. For example, some fish species respond to daylight duration to trigger reproduction.
• Optimize feeding: Proper light intensity improves food visibility and reduces fish stress, enhancing their growth and feed conversion rate.
• Control algae and bacteria: UV lighting is used to limit the proliferation of harmful algae and pathogens in the water, ensuring a healthy environment for the fish.

In Public Aquariums: Aesthetic and Biological Immersion

In public aquariums, lighting has both aesthetic and biological functions:

• Showcase species and decorations: Well-designed lighting helps accurately reproduce natural environments and enhances the visibility of fish and corals, creating an immersive experience for visitors.
• Support photosynthesis in plants and corals: In reef tanks, specific lighting in terms of spectrum and intensity is necessary for the growth of corals and aquatic plants.
• Reproduce natural cycles: Programmed lighting systems simulate day-night variations and seasonal cycles, contributing to the well-being of marine organisms.

Lighting Technologies Used

Today, different lighting technologies are used in aquaculture and aquariums:

• LEDs: Highly efficient, they offer a broad light spectrum, low energy consumption, and extended lifespan.
• Fluorescent lamps: Still used for lighting freshwater and marine aquariums.
• UV lighting: Essential for water sterilization and pathogen management.

In summary, appropriate lighting is crucial for species development in aquaculture and for enhancing public aquariums. Its optimization ensures both the health of aquatic organisms and a better visual experience for visitors.