Fish Tank Running Costs

Different_Corner

Hi I have a large 4ft fish tank. Given that we are all out until 3 - 4pm I am reluctant to turn the lighting on until mid afternoon given the price of electric at the moment. Switching it off around 9.30ish.

My question will this have any negative affects on the fish ? Have a 2 year old plec, kissing gouramis, clown loaches, yellow/black cichlids (sp?) and scissor tails.

Advice appreciated.

Froglet

Do you have live plants in the tank?They need the lighting more than the fish.The catfish and clown loach will appreciate the lack of lighting,but if i were you,and this is how my tank runs,i would put your lights on a timer,so that the lights come on earlier,but go off while it is still daylight.i suppose you want to be able to see them though.
if you have live plants they will need at least 8hrs per day.If you ask here

http://www.practicalfishkeeping.co.uk/forum/index.php

they will give you more expert advice than i maybe can

Different_Corner

Thanks Froglet, do have plants (when the fish aren't nibbling at them, seem to spend more on plants than fish..)
Timer sounds a good idea, reckon I could strech to 8 hours, sometimes the fish are more entertaining than the TV
Thanks for the link.

Froglet

You are welcome.I have never found a more comprehensive source of advice from a friendly bunch of people.No matter what the problem or query,someone has been through it,and can help!!