Reptile & Amphibian Forums

What is the general opinion on using the compact fluorescent bulbs for desert species? The pet store I frequent has Exo-Terra
10.0 desert compact bulbs on sale for a very tempting price. I also work with chameleons and there seems to be some debate as to whether the UVB that a compact emits is harmful to a chameleon's eyes. Do most keepers favor the fluorescent tubes over the compacts?

Hi , I have read the same info about the compacts and chameleons eyes as I too have a Panther chameleon. I have heard the compacts stink! JUNK not worth it,

I only use the fluorescents, zoo-med repti sun 10.0 are my favorite ones.
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Eve
Suncharmers

Many people are avoiding all compact fluorescents to avoid possible eye problems. This isn't necessary, but be certain the brand you are looking at is both safe (hasn't been reported as using the "bad" phosphors that allow inappropriate UV through) and a quality lamp (provides a fair amount of appropriate UVB at the distance you're using the lamp and with a reasonably low decay rate). To check on this - or to just read more about the problem lamps - you can look at the UV Guide .

Better safe than sorry? Use a quality linear fluorescent like a Reptisun 10.0. If your cage is large enough to allow for heat and basking distance, you can use MVBs like the Mega Ray or T-Rex Active Heat. But definitely know what you're using and make sure it's being used at an appropriate distance.

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Torey
Eugene, Oregon, USA
1.1.3 Saharan Uros (Joe, Arthur, Hitch, Lefty, and Skywalker)
3.0 Mali Uros (Spike, Turtle, and Tank)
1.1 Ornate Uros (Scuttlebutt and Shazzbot)
1.3 Collared Lizards (Ripcord, Thiamine, Riboflavin, and Niacin)
2.0 Green Anoles (Bowser and Sprocket)
1.1 Chubby Housecats (Roscolux and Jenny)