Lights necessary for cycling

[IAreef]

I was wandering can a tank cycle without full reef lighting as long as the other factors are in place temp, flow, etc. I'd like to get started and add equipment as money permits. Thanks in advance

[CarmieJo]

You will be just fine with LR and such during a cycle. Once you start adding critters they will need some light. They type of lights you eventually buy will depend on what you want to keep. Fish do fine under normal output fluorescent tubes, you can keep many softies and some LPS under PC lights while many SPS and clams need intense lighting.

[dlilbro]

How much time does the cycle generally take ?

[Rob]

its usually about 4-6 weeks, but you will know when its done if you are testing the water..