Question about best heat option

ZackTayl

Member
Hey, guys.

I've been building a vivarium for my future chameleon and I wanted some advice on heating.
What should I use?
In the past I used a uvb and basking light combo, but i've read online that it's best to seperate uvb, light, and even heat, so the chameleon can choose the location that best fits his/her needs.

Right now this is how my sanctuary is setup: two bridgelux full spectrum led strips (diy) for plants (totaling 35watts) - one kept on top, one in the middle of the cage protected by screening, a long uvb bar style light, and I have two mini pc fans running (the one on top forces hot air out, the one in the middle blows fresh air in for the plants and chameleon.

Thanks for the tips and advice!

Zack
 
I've planted a ton of plants since these pictures were taken and they seem to love the lights (which i have on a 16hr time schedule as of now to encourage growth.

You'll notice I created metal casing to protect the inside light from water (and to absorb some of the heat). I then super-glued screening to it. Even if the chameleon was to climb directly on top the screening it shouldnt be too hot.
 

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Use a t5HO linear uvb bulb and fixture for uvb and a regular white light heat incandescent bulb from the hardware store for basking. All lights (including LED) should only be on the top of the cage (no sides). Great job! Make sure that the lights are 12 hours of uvb, basking, and LED, and 12 hours of complete darkness! Add some more branches and vines, mostly horizontal, throughout, along with some more plant cover. What type of chameleon are you planning on getting? And what gender? Looks good, kudos on researching and everything first before buying! The chameleon care sheets here have great info on whatever type of cham you’re looking at!
 
Thanks!

I forget all the plant names but we made sure to research them before purchasing. Here's a picture or two. I should note that i'll be removing all of those hydroton rocks and replacing them with a thick coat of peat moss.

Yeah, the lights are only on that schedule now to help the plants fill in but I'm going to switch it once we get the Chameleon.

We're going to get a panther chameleon.

Use a t5HO linear uvb bulb and fixture for uvb and a regular white light heat incandescent bulb from the hardware store for basking. All lights (including LED) should only be on the top of the cage (no sides). Great job! Make sure that the lights are 12 hours of uvb, basking, and LED, and 12 hours of complete darkness! Add some more branches and vines, mostly horizontal, throughout, along with some more plant cover. What type of chameleon are you planning on getting? And what gender? Looks good, kudos on researching and everything first before buying! The chameleon care sheets here have great info on whatever type of cham you’re looking at!
 
Thanks!

I forget all the plant names but we made sure to research them before purchasing. Here's a picture or two. I should note that i'll be removing all of those hydroton rocks and replacing them with a thick coat of peat moss.

Yeah, the lights are only on that schedule now to help the plants fill in but I'm going to switch it once we get the Chameleon.

We're going to get a panther chameleon.
 

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Thanks!

I forget all the plant names but we made sure to research them before purchasing. Here's a picture or two. I should note that i'll be removing all of those hydroton rocks and replacing them with a thick coat of peat moss.

Yeah, the lights are only on that schedule now to help the plants fill in but I'm going to switch it once we get the Chameleon.

We're going to get a panther chameleon.
IMO, panthers are the best! Congrats!
 
I’m also in the middle of building 2 custom cages!
I'm getting ready to add a little 'free-range' setup on the side of his cage.
Just going to hang a plant from a long hook and attach something inbetween to keep him from climbing up. Then install a screen net below in case he falls.

Hopefully it works out!
 
Cheers for DIY!

As far as the basking light goes, would a 75 watter bring me to the 90f required?
You want a basking spot of 85* for an adult male panther. The care sheet for panthers here has the appropriate temps for different ages and sexes of chams. I can link my build thread if you’re thinking about going over the top!
 
Cheers for DIY!

As far as the basking light goes, would a 75 watter bring me to the 90f required?
The wattages for different temps are different for each keeper. Get and play with a couple of wattages, and get a digital temp gun to measure the temps.
 
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