I found this on a site as I was looking around today... I should have copied the name of the site as well, oops. It was a UK chameleon site.

When first released these were going to change the way we keep chameleons. This is true to some extent because they provide UVB for a much greater distance than the traditional flourescents. This meant a "free range" set up could be provided with sufficient UVB covering a greater area and heat, all from one bulb.



The problem with these bulbs is the same reason as the benefits. They are very powerful. In reality many chameleons do not bask for huge amounts of time. Possible exceptions are chameleons that come from areas, which are devoid of vegetation at certain times of the year. Examples being Veileds, Oustalet's and Verrucosus.



In summary they can be a good lamp if used in the right circumstances (large enclosures or free range) and with the right species of chameleon.



Note of caution

Several keepers have noticed reduced fertility and deterioration in the general health of Panther Chameleons kept under high powered (100w plus) mercury vapour bulbs. It has not been proved that the bulb is to blame but the animals in question improved when the lighting was replaced with Zoomed 5.0 tubes. For this reason we suggest very careful monitoring when using these bulbs.



After the problems I had with breeding Orion, I couldn't help but wonder if this had something to do with it. I was just wondering what type of lighting was/is used by anyone on here that has had fertility problems with their female(s)?

THANKS!!

~Lindsay

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