There is no single PAR target that works for every reef coral. As practical starting points, a Bulk Reef Supply guide suggests 75–150 PAR for soft corals, 150–250 PAR for LPS, and 250–350+ PAR for SPS. These are broad group ranges, not guarantees for individual species. Measure the light at coral height, match placement to each coral’s needs, and increase intensity gradually when conditions change.
What PAR should my corals get?
PAR, or photosynthetically active radiation, describes the intensity of light available for photosynthesis. Corals’ symbiotic zooxanthellae use light to produce energy. Too little light can contribute to weak color and slow growth; too much can stress or bleach corals. PAR describes intensity, not spectrum, so equal PAR readings do not establish that two fixtures provide the same spectral quality.
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Bulk Reef Supply’s guidance gives these broad starting ranges; its publication date is not stated on the retrieved page:
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1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute| Coral group | Starting range | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Soft corals | 75–150 PAR | Bulk Reef Supply guidance; not a species-specific prescription. |
| LPS corals | 150–250 PAR | Bulk Reef Supply notes some LPS may do better at lower levels. |
| SPS corals | 250–350+ PAR | Broad starting range, not a hard biological limit. |
Guidance varies by source and lighting context. EcoTech Marine’s 2020 Radion G5 guide calls 75–150 PAR “medium” for common LPS and 225–300 PAR “high” for common SPS, with an eight-hour peak photoperiod. Those figures are not directly interchangeable with the Bulk Reef Supply ranges: the categories, fixture context, and stated peak period differ. Use published ranges as orientation, then check guidance for the particular coral you keep.
#1 Best Overall
- All-in-One Spectrum Measurement: Accurately measures full-spectrum PAR (400–700nm) and UVA plus individual red, green, and blue (RGB) PPFD values for a complete picture of your reef lighting.
- Advanced Data Logging: Use the HOLD button to freeze the current reading, and RECORD mode to capture and store up to 99 measurements. Build detailed PAR/UVA distribution maps across your tank to optimize coral placement and ensure uniform light coverage.
- Lab-Calibrated Accuracy: Equipped with a high-grade precision PAR sensor and scientific calibration, this meter delivers lab-level accuracy. Trust each measurement to precisely reflect the true light intensity for healthy coral growth and photosynthesis.
- The rugged IP68-rated waterproof probe and ergonomic handheld unit are built to withstand regular aquarium use and make routine lighting checks effortless.
How do I know where to place corals in my tank?
Light levels vary across the aquarium. Water depth, fixture mounting height, rockwork, and water clarity all affect the PAR reaching a coral. Fixture wattage or apparent brightness alone cannot tell you what a coral receives.
Map the light at coral locations
- Take PAR readings near the sandbed, halfway up the rockwork, and near the top of the tank.
- Record readings at the specific positions where you expect to place corals.
- Use a meter suited to reef lighting if possible. Bulk Reef Supply cautions that a sensor not designed for typical reef spectra may read differently.
- Because water movement can make readings fluctuate, record an average rather than relying on a single instant.
Then match coral placement to the measured light landscape: lower-light corals can go in dimmer areas, while corals needing more light can occupy brighter zones. An EcoTech-hosted World Wide Corals example places shallow-water Acropora centrally, in the area receiving the most PAR. That aquaculture system reported 250–275 PAR on its SPS run and 80–140 PAR for LPS and deep-water corals in another trough. These are facility-specific observations, not universal targets for home aquariums.
Rank #2
- PAR Meter for Aquarium specially. IP68 Waterproof Sensor with a 3F telescopic rod.
- Test the PAR for kinds of lights accurately. Can search "compare" in Q&A to see the comparison between VBR-AQUA and other brand.
- Show the PAR of the blue, green, and red in the light seperately. Know the PAR of Blue that is very important for your coral growth, health, and coloration.
- Record 400 points of PAR, convenient to record the PAR of each position in the tank. DLI for 28 days.
- 3 AAA batteries can ensure the PAR meter last for 100 hours. Also can use the adapter for continuous testing.
Do I need a PAR meter?
A PAR meter is the direct way to measure the light intensity at the places where corals sit. Bulk Reef Supply’s walkthrough uses an Apogee MQ-510 underwater PAR meter and notes that borrowing or renting a meter is an alternative to buying one. If you cannot measure, placement based on fixture specifications alone is less certain because depth, mounting, and rockwork alter the light reaching each spot.
What photoperiod and acclimation should I use?
Photoperiod and intensity affect how a PAR target should be interpreted. Bulk Reef Supply suggests a one-hour ramp-up, eight hours at steady intensity, and a one-hour ramp-down as a starting schedule. EcoTech’s 2020 guide also recommends using its acclimation mode when installing new lighting to increase output gradually. These are source-specific practical recommendations, not a mandatory schedule or a universal acclimation rate.
Rank #3
- ✅【IP68 Waterproof PAR Meter】The quantum sensor of the PAR meter is designed with IP68 waterproof level, and it comes with a 37" Solid Telescopic Pole (Included), it's able to measure the photosynthetically underwater accurately
- ✅【High Accuracy】The measurement range of the waterproof PPFD meter is from 0~4000 μmol/m²/sec, The cut-on wavelength is 400 nm and the cut-off wavelength is 700 nm with ±10 nm, ensuring accurate results and making plants develop optimally with sufficient light in the aquarium
- ✅【79" Cable & 37" Solid Telescopic Pole】This aquarium par meter comes with waterproof 79" cable and 37" solid telescopic pole, the sensor can be mounted in the solid telescopic pole, it's easy to measure the readings of photosynthetic underwater and prevent the water to land on the floor
- ✅【Record Function】DANOPLUS PAR Meter can record up to 100 measured values, you may easily track and review previous measuring readings, it is particularly useful to track and change the light energy levels for prompt decisions
- ✅【Multi-Functional& User-Friendly】This par meter features Real-time measurement, Calibration, HOLD, and Data Logging functions. The set included: PAR meter main unit (not waterproof), IP68 waterproof quantum sensor, 79" Cable, 37" solid telescopic pole, AAA batteries x 3pcs
When installing a new fixture or making a substantial intensity change, start somewhat lower and raise output gradually. A large jump can bleach corals; observe coral response as you adjust rather than treating a group range as a reason to increase light immediately.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What should I compare when choosing reef lighting?
Choose a light for the conditions it can create across your tank and the corals you plan to keep, not for wattage alone. Bulk Reef Supply’s LED buying guide emphasizes output, spread, and controls, and notes that directional LEDs can cast shadows. Fixture count depends on tank size and coral goals.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Measure salt water or salinity of water, ideal for aquariums and marine monitoring.
- Measures on 2 scales, Specific Gravity (D 20/20) and parts per thousand.
- Features automatic temperature compensation.
- Comes with hard case, dropper, screwdriver, user manual and cleaning cloth.
- The main part is made of chromium, it's very durable.
Rank #4
- ✅【IP68 Waterproof PAR Meter】DANOPLUS PAR Meter sensor features an IP68 waterproof rating, ensuring accurate measurement of photosynthetic active radiation (PAR) for corals even in underwater environments.
- ✅【37" Solid Telescopic Pole Included】This aquarium PAR meter comes equipped with a 37-inch sturdy telescopic pole and a 79-inch sensor cable, allowing for easy submersion and positioning in reef tanks. The secure mounting system ensures effortless operation and precise PAR readings.
- ✅【High Precision PPFD Measurement】The PPFD meter provides highly accurate readings from 0 to 4000 μmol/m²/s, with a spectral range of 400–700 nm (±10 nm), ensuring reliable PPFD data for optimal coral growth in reef tanks.
- ✅【Built-In Data Logger】The reef PAR meter features manual data logging with storage for up to 100 PPFD values, allowing you to track previous measurements and fine-tune grow light intensity for maximum efficiency.
- ✅【Complete PAR Meter Set】This aquarium par meter features Calibration, HOLD, and Data Logging functions. The set included: PAR meter main unit, IP68 waterproof par quantum sensor, 79" Cable, 37" solid telescopic pole and AAA batteries x 2pcs
- Coverage: Can the fixture reach the whole tank footprint and the intended coral locations?
- Intensity: Can it provide suitable PAR where you plan to place your corals?
- Spectrum: Is its output appropriate for reef use? A PAR reading alone does not describe spectrum.
- Controls: Can you manage intensity and acclimation in a way that suits your setup?
- Shadowing: Will rockwork or directional light leave important areas poorly lit?
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