The effects of three light intensities (100, 350 and 1200 lux) on cuttlefish hatchling rearing performance was studied in black tanks. A total of 270 cuttlefish with a mean wet weight (MWW) of 0.089 ± 0.012 g were used in the experiment, which was undertaken during the first 50 days after hatching (hatchling stage plus the transition to the juvenile stage). According to results of the present study, light intensity is an important factor for growth and survival consistency in cuttlefish rearing. All three light intensity groups displayed exponential growth. The effect of days, light intensity and their interaction only displayed differences (P < 0.05) between light groups in terms of mean wet weight. The 100 lux light intensity promoted the best absolute values of total biomass and total mortality. We believe that the higher mortality observed in 1200 lux reared cuttlefish during the first 10 days after hatching (DAH) was due to light intensity and individual adaptation to light conditions. Therefore, the 100 lux light intensity, obtained with daylight spectrum bulbs, is recommended for cuttlefish rearing during the first 50 DAH. This light setup promotes higher growth and survival rates and lower energetic costs, which are key aspects to consider in a cuttlefish hatchery.