UVC is the germicidal wavelength used in sterilizers, algae killers etc. UVC lamps generally require warning labels, as they are harmful to skin, eyes and other living tissue.

The typical "black light" only produces UVA, no UVB or UVC. Most reptile fluorescents produce UVA and UVB. "Basking" incandescent bulbs only produce a small amount of UVA. It is UVB that contains the wavelengths that many reptiles use to synthesize vitamin D3.

There were (are?) a few reptile bulbs imported from China over the last year or two that produced some UVC in addition to the intended UVA and UVC. A couple of reputable manufacturers recalled these bulbs. Some off-brand versions are apparently still being sold.

[ Hide Replies ]

• blacklights - drugscrub, Tue Mar 17 00:40:40 2009
• RE: blacklights - Reptaquatics, Tue Mar 24 22:03:43 2009
• Party Bulbs *Don't* Produce UVC - Bryan OKC, Wed Mar 25 09:07:46 2009
• Typo correction - Bryan OKC, Wed Mar 25 09:18:15 2009
• Just a thought... - laurarfl, Thu Mar 26 11:47:41 2009
• RE: Just a thought... - Bryan OKC, Fri Mar 27 09:09:20 2009
• RE: Just a thought... - laurarfl, Sat Mar 28 22:21:09 2009