New here, could somebody please tell me what lights and fittings I need for a 3ft long enclosure for a baby beardie please.
Everywhere I've looked I get conflicting answers.
I emailed a reptile company just the other day and the lady said T8 lights were stronger than T5.
I had just been reading that T5 were better... I'm at a total loss here and my head is battered trying to find out.
Any help will be very much appreciated.
I use t5 I am running dual due to the size of my terrarium and 2 other lamps for the heat I also have triple thermometer setup inside to ensure a good temp gradient through the terrarium.
Here is some info on the UVB
Which UVB light should I use?
The best UVB light is a ReptiSun 10.0 fluorescent tube HO (Or Arcardia 12% in the UK). Compact or coil bulbs do not emit the proper amount of UVB light for a bearded dragon, and should not be used. Other brands, such as the Zilla Desert Series and ReptiGlo have been known to cause eye problems and other health issues with bearded dragons, and should be avoided. The reason that some UVB lights (Zilla, ReptiGlo, coils/compacts, ect.) are considered dangerous is because the wavelength of UVB that they emit is shorter and more intense than the wavelength of the "safe" lights (ReptiSun, Arcadia). UVB lights should be replaced every 6 months. The T5’s are a strong bulb and only need to be replaced once a year – the T 8 every 6 months--- where as the T 8 are not as strong—they need to be placed inside the tank the T 5 10.0 bulb approx 10-11 inches from basking spot – the T 8 approx 8-10 inches from basking spot—the cover needs to be off the bulb for full effect of the UVB rays-- you can use a fixture that is 2/3 of the tank size- but that is up to you --you dont want to go over board w/ it -- the dragon needs to be able to get away from the UVB if he wants to -- I use a 24" fixture w/ a Arcadia 14% bulb - its in a 120 gallon tank -- 4x2x2
Karrie
Yep, go with a T5. They're stronger than a T8. Fortunately you have access to a lot of good reptile supplies in the UK. I suggest this kit https://www.reptiles.swelluk.com/arcadia-prot5-kit-desert-12/ and Swell Reptiles is a good source for equipment in general.