Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hey all,
I am setting up my new 40 breeder and am wondering what the different preferences are for lights with the dome covers and just pure open light bulb? Any tips or suggestions?
-----
1 Mali Uromastyx named Scooter
ScootersHomepage
1 Miniature Dachshund named Dexter
DextersHomepage
Nashville, TN

The dome allows for the light and heat to be concentrated into the tank. However, there are different types of bulbs (i.e. tight beam and flood, etc.). I use a tight beam bulb that concentrates the heat and light a little better than a flood. This allows for better heat differential. Again, this is with use of a dome cover. Without it, much of the light and heat would excape into my room.

Generally, how far should a light be away from the basking spot? Does it just depend on the strength of the bulb and the heat it produces?
-----
1 Mali Uromastyx named Scooter
ScootersHomepage
1 Miniature Dachshund named Dexter
DextersHomepage
Nashville, TN

Yeah, the higher the wattage the more heat and light you will get. It won't be like comparing a 60 watt to the sun's rays, of course. I've heard that many people are goind to MVB's, which puts both UVA and UVB out. They also put a lot of heat out too. Anyway, you will have to work with the light...moving it either up or down until you get the right temp that you are looking for. I think my beardie's (150 watt, I think) is about 12-14 inches above the basking area...this gives about 110-120F, which is good for a beardie. Oh, thanks for taking up for me with Debb.

You're welcome. Although, I do agree with her that you do need to move your Uro to the bigger enclosure ASAP. I think her heart is in the right place, but her words are not.
-----
1 Mali Uromastyx named Scooter
ScootersHomepage
1 Miniature Dachshund named Dexter
DextersHomepage
Nashville, TN

I agree with you. I do need to get a bigger enclosure for him or her, but I don't play well with people that think that their opinion matters like she did. My beardie started off in the same 10 gallon...he's fine...a little pissy...but fine (i think this is because of my roommate and buddies teasing him when I'm not here...he's moving out so I'll be able to better everyone's condidition). He lived in it for about a month or so...no more than that. I know that both have different diets and requirements, but as long as the uro has the right heat and a place to retreat...the right diet...and calcium/d3/mineral supplements...then I think he'll make it. He flies around the cage when he gets nervous...but I try to handle him as much as possible...but not to much.