UV-B source question..

[Gungirl]

As you all know I just got a Blue Tongue Skink. I want to use a ceramic heat emitter for the basking spot. I know its a good idea to have a UV-B source. I can get a mercury-vapor lamp, but that will give off heat as well. I'm not sure that I need the extra heat. I see that there are linear UV-B lamps as well as spiral types. Are either of these as good for UV-B as the Mercury vapor lamp?


Thanks
Travis

Hubby typed it all up.. I just click submit..lol

[SpOoKy]

Personally I would stay away from the coil bulbs. I changed my beardies bulb to one of them once and noticed a change in behavior and appetite. As soon as I got a tube bulb he perked back up and went back to eating. I am not sure the strength needed for a BTS but beardies use a 10.0.

The problem with the linear tubes is that you have to change them every 6 months even if they are giving off light. The UVB is no longer being put out where the Mercury vapor are good until the blow.

Hope that helps a bit :)

[infernalis]

The mercury Vapour bulbs also do not need to be as close to the animal as a tube or spiral.

Just a trivial nugget: They all work on mercury vapour technology. That's why they all have mercury warnings on the box.

[SpOoKy]

The mercury Vapour bulbs also do not need to be as close to the animal as a tube or spiral.

Good point I forgot about that...

Also you want to keep in mind if you do go for a tube bulb, it will probably need to be placed inside the tank (depending on your set up) setting the tube fixture on top of screen is not going to do it. Screen filters out the UVB. like Wayne mentioned too, you need to be sure you check the manufactures recommendation on how far away to place the tube. If it is too far, no UVB. I believe the tube for my beardies is recommended at 14 inches away (not 100% sure of that but I know it is fairly close considering the size of their enclosures)

[Lankyrob]

When we had our lizards we used the MVB for both of them, found them really reliable and create a good heat gradient.

[Gungirl]

Ok so I guess we will stick to our original plans and go with a MVB then. Thanks for the info guys.

[shaunyboy]

i use 2ft uvb 2.0 tubes for my diamonds,i have had no problems with them mate

cheers shaun