Lighting requirements during cycling

[winland]

Setting up a shallow reef tank 72"x 30" x 16" tall.
I need to know how much light is needed during the first 2 - 3 weeks that the tank is set up, during the cycling period. I have plenty of LS and LR to put in the tank, but will need a few weeks before my MH lighting is ready.
Do I need lighting at all during the initial cycle period?
Do I need minimal, moderate, good, excellent lighting during this period?
Thank you.

 

[Slate]

If all you are doing is cycling your live rock and your sand you don't need any lighting at all. Most people suggested to me to not run lights so that it would keep algae growth to a minimum until I starting adding my clean up crew .

 

[Chichas01]

I'd just leave the lights off until you actually need them. Slate is right, it will cut down on algea growth.

 

[winland]

Thanks for the good information.
Much appreciated.

 

[rrcg50]

the less you run them the better you will be