are diatoms necessary ?

[Smallreef41]

I've always heard that in order for your tank to be cycled, you will have a diatom bloom. Is that necessary? My tank has been up and running for a little over 2 weeks now, all my parameters are perfect (just have to raise my salinity from .023 to .025) I won't be adding any fish until Aug 13(going on vacation next week)should i leave the light on so there could be a bloom?

 

[usctom]

No need for the light. It should lessen the the severity of the bloom.

 

[jdnumis]

+1 leave your lights off. You should cycle your tank for 6 weeks with no lights.