Lights on or off after adding new fish to tank

[Cancun]

Hi! I have never left my lights off after adding a new fish to my tank. Is this something I need to be doing? If so how long should I leave them off? I have heard everything from 4 hours to 24 hours....and just out of curiosity....what is the reason behind this? I would think it would feel like someone blind folded you and dumped you into a strange dark room or something. So I am interested in everyone's thoughts. Thanks again!

 

[Jeff4777]

Mainly if established fish terrorize the new comers, lights off can help them settle in with less stress.

 

[jraker]

Off for longer is better

 

[scooter31707]

I agree. It will lessen the chance of the newcomer getting bullied. It will also lessen the stress for the newcomer to a new environment.