Yes , even the strongest T8 UVB tube ( a 12% UVB ) will need a very good reflector above / around it's back half in a tank 18" tall.
You are better off investing in a 24W T5ho UVB tube rated AT LEAST 10%UVB and a reflector will be needed for this unless the dragon can get close enough when basking to get about 180 microW UVB / sq.cm.
yes you want a reflector w/ any tube fixtures - it maximizes the UVB rays --- and most recommend T 5 especially for bigger tanks 40 + gallon -- T 8's are good just not as strong as the T 5's
Karrie
yes you want a reflector w/ any tube fixtures - it maximizes the UVB rays --- and most recommend T 5 especially for bigger tanks 40 + gallon -- T 8's are good just not as strong as the T 5's
Karrie
The screen on her tank is really thick, not like the usual silverish mesh, so I had been thinking I would put a T5 on top of it. But then I started thinking the screen would block too much of it, so thought a T8 inside would be better. Plus I can't find the Arcadia 12% for T5 I wanted in stock anywhere. :/
The T 5 has options if it's mounted inside basking decor should be 12-15 inches-- on top of screen 8-10 inches-- try reptilesupply for the bulb they were awaiting an order coming in-
Karrie
That's the thing, if I mount it inside I don't think I can get it that far away - her current basking spot is only about 6 inches from the screen. I would have to have something no higher than about 3 inches, and she would definitely be much closer some of the time on some of her furniture. ??
It might be a good idea to invest in a UV meter. Then you can tell how much your beardie is getting though the screen and at various distances from the lamp.
It might be a good idea to invest in a UV meter. Then you can tell how much your beardie is getting though the screen and at various distances from the lamp.
Let's see if this shows it well enough - I lifted up the access flap to get a shot straight through, and the 2nd is a shot of it from straight above. A 100 watt basking bulb would not get the top of the basking decor (any 6-7 in. away) past 95, we had to go to a 150.
It might be a good idea to invest in a UV meter. Then you can tell how much your beardie is getting though the screen and at various distances from the lamp.
Hm, that's a thought.
King, I think you must be an engineer - or a rocket scientist. ?
Not sure if this stuff it's made of would count as mesh - it's metal that I can tap on and make a sound. (That's the way my brain works and how I explain stuff - very technical, isn't it?) ?