Sorry I have to disagree with the research scientist.



UVB producing flourescent tubes have been tested by many. Including individuals with UVB meters and well known universities. Documentation is available from many sources.



He says "In my opinion, the so called UVB-fourescent tubes don't put out UVB further than 3 inches from the bulb" This is just incorrect. As a scientist I would think you would just test your hypothesis to confirm or deny others actual tests.



He also says "you'd have to replace them every month if you wanted your dragon to benefit" Again this has been tested. UVB output has been measured on bulbs of various ages. Depending on brand they should be replaced every 6 months or 12 months in the case of Zoomed.



Reptile supply gives the following warning about mercury vapor bulbs.

"We love this light. The differences this bulb has made on animals kept primarily indoors has been nothing short of amazing.

However, there are some things worth noting:

1.) These bulbs get EXTREMELY hot and can kill your reptiles if used on enclosures that are too small.

2.) We do not recommend the use of this bulb with 10 gallon aquariums.

3.) We strongly recommend the use of a high quality "high range" thermometer when using this light."



Believe me. they are in the business to sell products. They wouldn't put a strong warning like this if they hadn't had significant problems with them. They have no warning if you wanted a standard high wattage daylight bulb.



Also I have heard mentioned here before that these lights may be too bright for your reptile if mounted too close and can cause discomfort or eye damage. They are really designed for far distances from your reptile. (3 - 4 feet or more maybe) I have also heard of too much UVB causing burns. Guess you just have to be sure that this is what you really need for your type of setup.



Well, I'm done my rant. I use Reptisun 10.0. If I thought that mercury vapor was better I'd use it. To me cost or hastle is not a factor in the care of my dragons. On the horizontal parts of their basking areas it's about 15" to the UVB light. On the vertical they could get thier heads to about 5".

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