UVB Light Size

[Reed7786]

Hello,

I'm actually going to start a cage I designed last year, and just had a couple questions. Is there a required length UVB I should get, I know most people get the 18" in a 20" fixture for their cages, my cage is bigger then the standard square as its made for a corner. I've been thinking about getting a 36" but didn't really know if it would be required, anyone have an opinion? I'm kind of assuming it just needs to be long enough to cover the basking area?

 

[Solid Snake]

My opinion would be that a linear tube, stretching the entire length of the cage is optimum. That way the animal could get UVB wherever it liked.
I would go with the biggest fixture that will fit.
JMO
Good luck with the build

 

[Reed7786]

Sounds good, I'll get the 36" then.

Does anyone use tubes for there heat light? Deciding between a single or dual fixture but not sure if I want that or just to use the normal round lamps for the heat..

 

[LLLReptile]

As Solid Snake said... I would recommend a fixture and tube that goes as close to the entire length of the cage as possible.

-Jen

 

[LLLReptile]

Sounds good, I'll get the 36" then.

Does anyone use tubes for there heat light? Deciding between a single or dual fixture but not sure if I want that or just to use the normal round lamps for the heat..

Tubes don't make enough heat for most species. If you're seeking a bulb to do both UVB and heat, check out mercury vapor bulbs. We use them in our retail stores and love them.

-Jen

 

[Reed7786]

No wasn't looking for a combo bulb just didn't know if I should get a tube or normal for the heat/plant light.

I'll try to get the biggest I can, the 36" will go across most of it, could maybe go to a 42"..will see.

Thanks for the info, I'll most likely have more questions soon!