My light just went out(that I just bought) and I don't have one currently. Is it possible to use a standard 60 watt light bulb until tomorrow or Saturday when I can get one at a petsmart so it will be cheaper? My local pet store sells them at outrageous prices. The light would simply be for lighting, and not heat because my bd tank sets close to an upstairs window and high temps are easily obtained. Or would it simply be better to open the curtains and just let sunlight through? Would either of these be acceptable or should I just pay the higher price at a pet store? Thank you.
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question on lighting
justinmatthew
Jun 03, 2004 08:33 AM
Replies (3)
michele608
Jun 03, 2004 09:05 AM
Household bulbs will do for lighting but do be aware that a 60 watt bulb will raise the temps in the tank so keep an eye on the thermostat and raise the light fixture a bit from the cage top if it starts getting too warm.
Best,
michele
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3.2 Bearded Dragons (Rescues)
1.0 Corn snake (Rescue)
0.1 California King
4.5 Royal (Ball) Pythons (3 rescues)
1.1 Dogs (Rescues)
2.0 Cats (Rescues)
2.2 Humans
No, it's NOT a big house
michele608
Jun 03, 2004 09:07 AM
You say your tank gets heat from sunlight. Sunlight *only*? Is there still a temperature gradient available?
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3.2 Bearded Dragons (Rescues)
1.0 Corn snake (Rescue)
0.1 California King
4.5 Royal (Ball) Pythons (3 rescues)
1.1 Dogs (Rescues)
2.0 Cats (Rescues)
2.2 Humans
No, it's NOT a big house
kakadu
Jun 03, 2004 09:31 AM
I agree, this post was troubling. A dragons tank should not get hot all over. They should have a basking spot that is around 105 degrees and a cool area that is around 80 degrees. The whole tank should never get above 85. You dragon needs to be able to regulate his temp by moving from one side of the other.
BUT, I never ever buy the expensive "basking bulbs" for reptiles. They do not offer anything that a regular household bulb does not. They do not have any more UVA and no UVB unless they are the MVB bulbs. Why spend the extra for a little peice of colored film that might make the light a little different color on your dragon? They are really a waste of money.
Make sure though that you have a good UVB light. You can use an MVB and get heat and light at the same time, or you can get a flourescent tube like Reptisun 5.0 or 8.0. Just make sure the box says UVB specifically, and more then the 2.0. The reptile lights and basking lights are USUALLY marketed as "Full Spectrum" but do not have ANY significant UVB output. UVB is SO vital to your dragons health, be really careful in your choice.
Kakadu Dragons
