Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Well. I am going to my first BTS in a couple weeks and I know there is much debate on use of UVB and do they need it.
I am going to provide it. Does anyone use the compact flourescents? I was going to put it next to the basking lamp.
I would like to use a mercury vapor, but i am getting a baby and afraid with the tank size it would overheat the cage.I used them when i had an iquana years ago,but he was in a huge cage.

Thanks
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I would just get the regular tube UVB bulbs. Some compact bulbs in the past have put out harmful UVB radiation which caused eye damage and other problems...something gonjinitus... info about is here:

www.uvguide.co.uk/phototherapyphosphor.htm

Keep in mind some manufacturers have changed their bulbs so the compacts are not as dangerous. However, since blue tongues don't really need alot...don't see a need to use them.

A mercury Vapour bulb I think will be far too much for BTS. That and you do need to house them at least 18" about the highest basking spot, they are more expensive, and have to be mounted perfectly straight, not at an angle, else they tend to burn out or break.
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PHLdyPayne