The UVB Varanid debate !

[Akuma223]

Originally Posted by infernalis

Well people, time for another turnaround with the thought train.

I have been doing some research into using Metal Halide lamps in my basking array, and the pros all outweigh the cons.

I brought up the idea within the "scientific community" and the replies were overwhelming in favor of using them because...

a. closely copies natural sunlight, in both UVA & UVB output
b. higher lumens to wattage ratio (brighter light cage)
c. energy efficiency of plasma discharge lighting
d. cost effective if I wire my own ballasts.

One quote that sticks out....

So then It would be good to start adding some sort of uvb now? So what wattage should these halide lamps be at? If they are so beneficial I would like to get them as soon as possible.

[infernalis]

Originally Posted by Akuma223

So then It would be good to start adding some sort of uvb now? So what wattage should these halide lamps be at? If they are so beneficial I would like to get them as soon as possible.

If you buy one from a reptile shop, about $200 per light.

Wired up myself from scratch, about $50 per light.

Not just UVB, Halide lamps produce UVA & UVB along with a lot of usable light & heat.