Hey I was wondering if you all could tell me what proper lighting to use for my ball. Right now it is in a 10 gallon tank with an overhead hood with a UV bulb. I've heard that the UV bulb is not necessary. Any help?
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UV lighting?!
irishmanhoe
May 29, 2004 04:33 PM
Replies (4)
lilroach56
May 29, 2004 05:13 PM
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Giantrobo
May 30, 2004 09:54 AM
Here's what I understand to be the case:
1. Snakes get their calcium from the bones of rodent prey. UV lights, specifically UV-B rays produce by some of these light sources, helps the animal produce D3 which is necessary to metabolize calcium. But again, since snakes eat whole rodents and calcium is taken from the bones UV lights aren't required like they are for insectivore and herbivore lizards. Since we're on the topic of UV rays, UV-A rays may help to promote mating, mood, and appetites in animals.
2. There's a debate going back and forth whether UV rays can even penetrate a snake's thick skin and scales. Perhaps someone can comment on this? I know it was big deal a few years ago.
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Giantrobo
May 30, 2004 10:26 AM
I also read somewhere that snakes get D3 from their prey's liver....
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Tigergenesis
May 31, 2004 11:10 AM
Snakes get all they need from their prey - unlike lizards who need the UV. So it is not needed, but doesn't hurt. It's really only for you to see them in the daytime better. It also provides a good day/night cycle - but natural sunlight in your room can do that as well. I use UV light on my Ball Python and Kenyan Sand Boa's tank.
Not needed - but not harmful (unless it seems to stress your BP for some reason)
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