New research on UV lights. Thoughts?

[YoursTruly]

So what about length? Is 2ft sufficient? Or should I go with 3ft?

 

[newbeardie11]

2ft is good if it spans the basking spot. Try mounting the light inside the tank as well.

 

[YoursTruly]

Will do. I think am going to wait until the T8 10.0 bulb we have hits the 6-month mark (since we already spent the money on it) to upgrade to the T5 10.0. My dragon has an extremely healthy appetite and basks all day, so I think she will be okay until then.

 

[newbeardie11]

Sounds good. The t8 definitely still put out solid uvb in the 8-10" range

 

[YoursTruly]

Oh she's definitely in that range. We have a 12X12X30 tank because she's still a juvenille, and she has a 3-in raised basking spot.

 

[Taterbug]

So what about length? Is 2ft sufficient? Or should I go with 3ft?

Depends on the size of the cage. Aim for about 1/2 coverage, this allows for adequate gradient. A 2ft lamp will be good for up to a 4-5' long cage, 5'+ I would look at a 36" and some additional ambient lights. (Or a multi socket fixture).

 

[Taterbug]

Update!

I switched to a T5 strip light, around 20 Cm from my dragon.

His behaviour has changed tenfold. He eats his greens, is super active and has all of his good colours showing.

Thanks everyone.

Does your T5 have a reflector on it? If so it will be better to move it a bit further away.

 

[newbeardie11]

Whats optimal for the T5? 25cm is the farthest i can get it without mounting it outside of the tank.

 

[Taterbug]

Whats optimal for the T5? 25cm is the farthest i can get it without mounting it outside of the tank.

With a reflector 25-30cm through screen or 30-35cm without screen

Without a reflector 20-25cm without screen.

 

[newbeardie11]

Okay, i took the reflector off. Thanks.