Reptile & Amphibian Forums

What is the difference between UVB and UVA, dont understand.

My basking light says it produces UV light, but my red light (40Watts) says nothing except just generates heat. Dont understand this either.

There are two types of UV rays...UV basically just promotes "good well-being" and isn't all that special. UVB is the specific type that you need for your turtle's proper calcium absorption/production and shell/bone strength. There are only two ways to suppliment UVB light for turtles that live exclusively indoors: 1. provide turtles regular access to sunshine with absolutely no screens, glass, acrylic, or plastic acting as a barrier. (Even putting the tank next to a window doesn't work...the sun filters through the window pane and the wall of the tank.) This is harder than you think...you need to actually take them outside in the sun...not possible all year round due to weather. 2. Get a bulb that specifically produces UVB rays. This way the need is fulfilled in doors just fine. Remember, if it doesn't specifically say UVB, then it doesn't produce it. "Full Spectrum" bulbs only produce UV. You need to find one specifically produces it UVB. UVB bulbs typically come in the tube light style, and there is also a mercury vapor bulb that produces both UVB and heat, so you don't need a separater basking bulb for heat.

Remember, if a bulb is a "heat" bulb (like the red, or infrared kind) thats all they do. When bulb buying you need to be very careful and read boxes for very specific information.