UVA vs UVC vs UVB Light
If you have looked into reptile bulbs before, chances are that the other forms of ultraviolet light (UVA/UVC) have come up in conversation. When discussing lighting for reptiles, it’s natural for there to be some confusion between the three light spectrums. After all, if you’re not a medical professional or reptile expert, chances are that they don’t come up in everyday conversation.
UVA Bulbs: Helps to regulate your reptile’s metabolism. Important for appetite, energy levels, and mating behaviors.
UVB Bulbs: Important for the absorption of essential nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D. Essential for maintaining your reptile’s immune system.
UVC Bulbs: Not typically needed or used in reptile vivariums. Used for sterilizing surfaces of bacteria.
At this point, it is important to note that your bulb’s output will become weaker over time. Eventually, it may not be powerful enough to provide your reptile with what it needs. We recommend replacing your bulb every 12 months or so.
Giving Your Reptile Optimal UVB Lighting Bulbs
Providing your reptile with the proper amount of exposure to UVB light isn’t just about setting a random bulb on top of its cage. It is important to research your pet and understand how much exposure it truly needs. Some reptiles, such as tortoises, bearded dragons, and turtles need this type of light to survive. However, any reptile you purchase will benefit from UVB exposure. Whichever pet you get, make sure it has an area where it can access the UVB bulb without any impediment from decorations or opaque glass.
If your reptile doesn’t have proper exposure to heating/lighting, you may start to see a negative impact on its physical and mental health. This includes the inability to keep weight on, osteoporosis, and vulnerability to infections.
How Much Do They Need?
With that being said, your pet won’t need 24/7 365 access to UVB light. They will also benefit from you imitating the day/night cycle of the wild. You can do this by keeping the bulb on for 8 hours and keeping it off the rest of the time. There are even a variety of tools available that will help you automatically control your lights when you need them. Once you have it set up, you won’t have to lift a finger. Your bulbs and electricity bill will also thank you. If your reptile needs a source of heat at night, we would recommend utilizing heating pads and rocks.
To gain a better understanding of what types of bulbs and exposure level your reptiles may need, it is also important that you ask the right questions. This includes looking at your pet’s natural habitat and assessing how big your terrarium is. The dimensions of your enclosure, in particular, will have a large impact on the size of bulbs you acquire in the end.
Are UVB Light Bulbs Safe
When talking about UVB light bulbs, it’s natural to bring up the question of whether or not they’re safe for your reptile or home. These devices can potentially fail and spark after all. However, if you implement a few basic safety precautions, they will be perfectly safe to use on a daily basis. Simply make sure you’re using the appropriately sized bulb for your enclosure. You also want to connect it to a surge protector, and occasionally inspect its wires for damage.
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April 19, 2025