mvb question

[moonkid]

i have a 55 gl tank n im thinkin bout gettin a mvb tube cuz im havin problems with my temp lately so if i get a i think 40'' mvb tube n just a 75w or maybe 60w uva bulb in the baskin spot is it gonna b enough or is gonna be too hot.....????
if somebody is using a mvb tube in a 55 gl tank,, tell me hows that workin for u......
thanx

 

[Trogdor_1]

Murcury Vapor Bulbs (MVBs) do not come in tubes. They are a screw in bulb. And it could work in a 55 gal. However, if you're using a standard 55 gal fish tank, the floor space is not enough for a dragon. Look into getting a 40 gal breeder tank. You can use an MVB for that tank. And with MVBs you do not need a heat lamp. The bulb does both UVB and heat in one.
Also, for temps - invest in a temperature gun (tempgun.com). They make it very easy to monitor temps and then you can adjust as you go. If you can't get a temp gun, make sure you are using a digital thermometer with a probe.

 

[moonkid]

Srry for my mistake.. So i just need a mvb on top of my baskin spot n maybe a uva on the cool side to keep temp runnin good..

 

[LJean]

There are UVB bulbs that are tubes (flourescent long). ReptiSUN 10 is the good one. With this one you would need to add a regular household bulb for heat (over basking area).

Or in that size tank you can use a mercury vapor bulb (mvb). This one will produce both heat/and UVB.

It just depends on which bulb you would like to go with. You do have to keep in mind that there is a safe distance to keep the dragons from these bulbs.

Tube UVB lights generally need to be 6-8 inches from the dragon.
MVB (mercury vapor UVB bulbs) need to be 12-18 inches away (depending on which brand you use).

Hope that helps.

As for how hot the tank will be, it is hard to say. Some people need high wattage bulbs to keep their enclosures warm enough, others, like me, need lower wattage bulbs. You will have to check the temps to be sure.