Reptile & Amphibian Forums

When measuring the tempeture do you measure the surface temp. directly under the bulb, or do you measure the air temp. under the bulb near the surface? Please help I'm kinda confused. Thanks,

Khandof

The best way to get an accurate basking temp is with a I.R. Temp. Gun. You just aim it at what ever you want to measure.

Or you can use a digital in/out thermometer. You put it to "out" and run the probe cable in the cage & use a rubberband or something to hold the probe on the surface of the basking spot.

To get the basking temp. you put it at the closest point of the object (what ever is used as a basking surface) to the bulb.

The air around the object may be 90* but the surface could be 130*. That would not be good,, so definitely measure the surface.

I hope that helps.
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Joel R

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I have a temp gun, but I still don't know that the basking temps, surface temps, and the air temps should be. What are the ranges of the temps? And what's the best type of bulb to use to ensure my bd's get the right amount of heat? Thanks,

Khandof

Basking temp = closest surface to the bulb (where they will be sitting) For babies that should be around 110. Adults 100.

Cool side should be in the 80's to lower 90's. 90 is pushing it for an adult.

As far as bulb,, that would depend on your set up. I use indoor Duramax spot or flood bulbs from Homedepot. They come in 30, 40, 55, 65, 85. There may even be a few more in-between. You have to play with them to see what works in your situation. If it's a big cage, you'll likely need a higher wattage bulb. The distance from the surface to the bulb is another key factor. If you add more fluorescents, you'll have to likely lower the wattage of the basking bulb, or raise the fixture. Room temp. even plays a roll. Too many factors to tell you what would be best for your cage.

I hope that helps.
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Joel R

Coming Soon!
www.SpikesAndScales.com