Design and Performance of an Electronic Lighting-Control Circuit That Simulates Sunrise and Sunset

Abstract

Fish held in experimental or aquacultural production systems often are exposed to unnatural lighting situations. In particular, fish are subjected to lighting regimens that include instantaneous changes in light intensity. These lighting patterns may induce stress in fish and distort experimental results or cause reduced growth. Despite this potential, little or no technology exists to precisely control lighting in artificial fish holding facilities. This paper presents a design for an electronic lighting‐control circuit that can produce a pattern more closely resembling natural lighting conditions by allowing gradual changes in light intensity.