UVB and lighting article

[Taterbug]

http://www.reptilesmagazine.com/An-In-Depth-Look-At-UV-Light-And-Its-Proper-Use-With-Reptiles/

An indepth (and very recent article) by Dr. Baines about lighting and UVB. Great resource for the information of the why and how of high quality UVB provision.

[D3] controls as many as 2,000 genes influencing a huge range of functions, including cell division and the immune system. Adequate vitamin D3 is needed for full health, not just the bare minimum that keeps MBD at bay.

 

[CooperDragon]

Thanks for posting this! Always good to get the latest info from her. Interesting bit about UV's antimicrobial properties. I think of UVC when it comes to that (Xenex robots in particular come to mind) rather than UVA or UVB. This is a really good summarization of bits & pieces I've read and reinforces the critical importance of high quality UVB lighting and proper UVB exposure along with gradients for overall health.

 

[AHBD]

Excellent article by a true expert. Thanks for posting, this should be helpful to many reptile owners, although it can be a bit daunting to understand all of the diagrams + lingo.

 

[OxBox]

Awesome article. Coming from reefkeeping there are many articles similar on lighting etc.

I didn't think about the metal halide based lamps. I used to run them over my aquariums but have went LED now. The lack of control (aka dimmable) could be an issue but still a great option and a great article especially for a UV noob like me.

 

[Rankins]

Another interesting fact about Vit D3 is that it has shown to be very effective at treating depression in humans. Mental health providers have been using it regularly for about 10 years with their patients. Some patients that didn't respond to chemical antidepressants improved with a daily does of Vit D3. I know this doesn't pertain to reptiles...but it could be of benefit to someone that suffers from depression.
Felt it was worth mentioning....