No--- use right away-------- the bulb you want to replace w/a better one -- use a Reptisun 10.0 T 8 -- take the plastic cover off the fixture leave it off ---the fixture needs to go inside the tank approx 6-8 inches from basking decor w/ it directly over the decor ------ you can use these to hang the fixture '
3 M command Velcro fasteners- picture hanging wire – long plastic zip ties--- potted plant wire hangers - shoe laces -- fishing line
Karrie