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Valuable blogs regarding UVB light in the terrarium
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Posted: November 29, 2022
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Posted: November 24, 2022Read more »
Tips for choosing the UV lighting in the terrarium
Modern UVB lamps have different wattages. The distance between the UV lamp and the animal as well as the daily exposure time can also be changed. We therefore recommend the following procedure:
1. Choosing the right wattage (35 - 150 watts)
2. Choose the right distance between the lamp and the animal (often between 20 and 40cm)
3. The daily exposure time (6 – 12 hours)
The UVB matrix developed by Reptiles Expert is helpful here. We try to imitate the sun in their natural habitat for our reptiles as much as possible. Desert animals will require more UVB, more heat, and also longer exposure times than jungle animals or Mediterranean reptiles.
Example: A desert reptile (bearded dragon) needs a 70 watt UVB lamp at a distance of approx. 30 cm. This distance is chosen so that the UVB radiation reaching the animal is just right. The heat radiation from the lamp is also okay at this distance. If necessary, you can increase the heat with... -
Posted: November 18, 2022Read more »
GRRR@#! ...My UVB lamp in the terrarium suddenly won't start anymore - what's wrong?
Who doesn't know this: The expensively bought UV lamp suddenly no longer starts or suddenly goes out. After the first anger, we start troubleshooting.
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Posted: November 11, 2022Read more »
Modern UV metal vapor lamps (the best UV lamps in the terrarium) require a so-called electronic ballast for operation. Without an electronic ballast, the UV lamp would not start at all. So why do you need this extra device?
There are two reasons:
1) As a starter for igniting the UV lamp: The electronic ballast sends a very high starting current of approx. 5000 volts into the UV lamp in order to ignite the gas mixture. The terrarium lamp ignites, the gas mixture heats up and after a few minutes full brightness is reached.
2) As a current limiter: During operation of the UV metal halid lamp, the discharge current increases and would destroy the lamp without electronic limitation.
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Posted: November 02, 2022Read more »
Modern UVB metal halid lamps - also called UV lamps, HID lamps or UV spots - have the following significant advantages over all other terrarium lamps.
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Posted: October 24, 2022
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Posted: October 18, 2022
Read more »Lighting guide for Greek tortoises
Our Greek tortoises are also cold-blooded reptiles and therefore need a lot of
- UV light
- bright visible light
- warmth
In their natural habitat - in the Mediterranean area - the solar radiation is much more intense than here in Central Europe. Especially north of the Alps, the solar radiation is far too low, even in summer. Due to the flatter angle of incidence, the sun's light has to take a longer path through the atmosphere - which therefore acts like an enlarged filter. Heat and UV radiation is therefore lost. While an average solar radiation of 200 watts per m² is reached in the Mediterranean region, the maximum in Central Europe is 110 watts / m². Compared to the Mediterranean region, summer here is simply too short, too humid and too cold. However, a sufficiently high temperature and UV radiation is essential for the survival of tortoises.
Due to low temperatures and wet and cold environment, these reptiles do not reach the necessary...
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Posted: October 17, 2022Read more »
The ideal lighting for aquatic turtles
Welcome to Reptiles Expert! Here you will find valuable information on the ideal lighting for aquatic turtles. All species (including ornamental turtles) are fascinating reptiles that have special lighting requirements. One crucial component is UVB lighting, which is essential for the animals' vitamin D3 synthesis. In this article, we present a recommendation for terrarium lighting.
UV metal halide lamps - the basking spot your tortoise needs
Modern UV metal halide lamps with electronic ballasts are the best choice to meet the needs of your aquatic turtles. These lamps not only provide the essential UVB light for vitamin D3 synthesis, but also heat and visible light. Here are the benefits in detail:
UVB light:
UVB rays are essential for aquatic turtles as they enable the production of vitamin D3 in their skin. This vitamin is crucial for the absorption of calcium, which in turn is essential for bone and shell health. Diseases such as rickets or a soft...
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Posted: September 29, 2022Read more »
The Perfect Lighting for Your Bearded Dragon Terrarium
Bearded dragons are wonderful reptiles that have gained popularity as terrarium pets. If you're considering keeping a bearded dragon, ensuring the right lighting in their terrarium is crucial. In this blog post, we will discuss the necessary lighting, particularly UV light, for a bearded dragon terrarium and provide valuable tips on lighting equipment, specifically aimed at beginners.
Why is UV Light and a Proper Sunspot Important for Bearded Dragons?
Bearded dragons (Pogona, part of the Agamidae family) originate from the sunny deserts of Australia, making them true sun enthusiasts. In their natural habitat, the average sun exposure reaches 250 to 300 watts per square meter. In contrast, Central Europe sees a maximum of 110 watts per square meter, resulting in shorter, moister, and cooler summers. However, achieving sufficient temperatures and UV radiation is vital for bearded dragons. Their well-being depends heavily...
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Posted: September 19, 2022Read more »
Optimal lighting for your chameleon terrarium: a guide for beginners
The choice and correct placement of UV lighting in a chameleon terrarium are crucial factors for the well-being and health of your exotic pets. Chameleons need UV light to synthesise vitamin D3, but it is equally important to avoid burns. In this blog post, we will give you valuable tips, especially if you are setting up a chameleon terrarium with UV lighting for the first time.
Correct attachment of the UV lamp
The way in which you attach the UV lamp (ideally a UV metal halide lamp with electronic ballast) is very important. Chameleons are known for their climbing abilities, so it is advisable to place the lamp over a gauze or perforated sheet to prevent the chameleon from coming into direct contact with the lamp. A gauze is a lightweight, translucent fabric that allows enough light to pass through while providing protection. If you decide to use a perforated sheet as protection, make sure that the holes are large enough...
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Posted: September 18, 2022Read more »
Recommendation for spiny-tailed dragons / Uromastyx: The perfect UV lighting
The spiny-tailed agama, also known as Uromastyx, is a popular terrarium animal as it is relatively easy to care for. To ensure that the reptiles feel comfortable in your terrarium, the right lighting is crucial.
Why is lighting so important?
Spiny-tailed dragons are diurnal and therefore require not only warmth, but also sufficient UVB light for the synthesis of vitamin D3. This vitamin is crucial for the health of the agamas as it enables the absorption of calcium. Without sufficient UVB light, they can suffer from serious health problems, in particular bone softening (rickets).
The ideal solution: UV metal halide lamps
To ensure that your spiny-tailed dragons receive the necessary UVB radiation, we recommend the use of UV metal halide lamps. These lamps are particularly effective as they not only emit heat and UVB, but also UVA and visible light. The combination of these elements ensures that your agamas not...
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Posted: September 17, 2022Read more »
Why UVB light is also important for geckos
Geckos in terrariums have special needs - including when it comes to lighting. UVB light also plays a role in the optimal care of these popular reptiles, especially with regard to the synthesis of vitamin D3. Why is UVB irradiation useful for geckos?
The ABCs of UVB light:
Geckos are nocturnal creatures by nature, but that doesn't mean they should ignore daylight. UVB light is essential for vitamin D3 synthesis, a process that in turn is vital for healthy calcium metabolism and the prevention of bone disease. But that's not the only reason for UVB light in geckos. It also reduces the proliferation of bacteria, fungi and viruses on the skin and therefore has a positive health effect. Immune modulation - triggered by UVB light - also strengthens the body's own defense and immune system.
The diversity of geckos:
Different gecko species have different needs when it comes to UVB irradiation. Leopard geckos, for example, come from dry steppe regions...
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Posted: September 17, 2022Read more »
The right UV lighting for monitor lizards: A guide for terrarium owners
Monitor lizards are fascinating reptiles that can be kept in terrariums and require a special environment to stay healthy and happy. One of the most important components for the well-being of monitor lizards is the right UV lighting. In this guide, we will recommend the best terrarium lights for monitor lizards and why they are so crucial.
Why is UV lighting important for monitor lizards?
Monitor lizards are cold-blooded reptiles that spend a lot of time in the sun in the wild. UV radiation from the sun is crucial for the production of vitamin D3 in the skin of monitor lizards. This vitamin is in turn important for the absorption of calcium from food and contributes to the prevention of bone softening and rickets. Modern UV lamps (metal halide lamps) provide everything for optimal vitamin D3 synthesis: UVB radiation, heat and very bright visible light.
The best terrarium lamps for monitor lizards: UV metal halide lamps...
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Posted: September 16, 2022Read more »
Why UVB light is also important for snakes
Snakes often live in secret and spend their days hidden away. But did you know that they can benefit from the sun's rays just like us humans? UVB light plays a crucial role in the well-being and health of snakes. In this news blog, we will take a closer look at why UVB light is also important for these reptiles.
Natural source of vitamin D3
Although the main source of vitamin D3 for snakes is food intake, UVB light plays a supporting role. In the wild, snakes often expose themselves to the sun to warm up. In doing so, they absorb UVB rays, which are necessary for the production of vitamin D3 in their skin. Adequate vitamin D3 levels are crucial for the absorption of calcium and therefore bone health.
Control of harmful bacteria
UVB light also has antimicrobial properties that help keep harmful bacteria on the surface of snakes' skin under control. This also applies to fungi and viruses. This not only supports their skin health, but also helps to...
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Posted: September 15, 2022Read more »
Iguanas need a basking area with UV lighting
The right lighting in the terrarium plays a crucial role in the well-being and health of our iguanas. We have put together a simple lighting guide for you so that your reptiles can enjoy optimal conditions.
The key to health: UVB lighting
In the wild, iguanas recharge their batteries under the intense sun. To simulate this natural light in the terrarium, UV terrarium lamps are indispensable. These lamps not only emit UVB radiation, which is important for vitamin D3 supply, but also provide UVA radiation, heat and bright visible light - everything your iguana needs for a perfect basking spot.
Vitamin D3: A must for healthy iguanas
The UVB radiation from the terrarium lamp plays a crucial role in the production of vitamin D3. This vitamin is necessary for the absorption of calcium, which in turn supports your iguana's bone health. With the right UV terrarium lighting, you can ensure that your iguana synthesizes sufficient vitamin D3, which prevents...
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Posted: June 04, 2022
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Posted: June 03, 2022Read more »
Reptiles need a lot of UVB light and warmth. This creates vitamin D3, which is extremely important for the health of reptiles. Above all, an adequate supply of vitamin D3 prevents the dreaded softening of bones (rickets). In tortoises, the vitamin deficiency is shown by a soft shell. Pregnant females also need more calcium to form eggshells. UVB radiation provides vitamin D3 and increases the plasma calcium level and thus promotes bone formation and the supply of calcium. This is one of the reasons why UVB lamps are used in the terrarium. They provide the necessary UVB radiation and heat. As cold-blooded animals, reptiles depend on an external supply of heat from the sun. This is also done by these special lamps in the terrarium. Here in Central Europe, the power of the sun cannot be compared to that of the Mediterranean or desert areas. Therefore, the sun alone in Central Europe is unfortunately not enough. In terrariums you need UVB lighting anyway.
How can you ensure the necessary UVB...
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Posted: June 03, 2022Read more »
UVB Lighting for Corn Snakes – Which UV Lamp Is Suitable?
Corn snakes (Pantherophis guttatus) are among the most popular pet reptiles. While they are not strictly diurnal, they benefit significantly from appropriate UVB lighting in their terrariums. This guide explains why UVB is important for corn snakes and recommends suitable UVB lamps.
Why Do Corn Snakes Need UVB Light?
Although corn snakes can obtain vitamin D3 from their diet, UVB exposure offers additional health benefits:
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Vitamin D3 Synthesis: UVB light stimulates natural vitamin D3 production, essential for calcium absorption and bone health.
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Immune System Support: UVB exposure can enhance the immune system, promoting overall wellness.
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Skin Health: UVB light has antimicrobial properties, helping to prevent skin infections.
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Behavior and Coloration: Adequate lighting supports natural behavior patterns and may enhance coloration.
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Circadian Rhythm Regulation: UVB contributes to a balanced day-night cycle, important for the snake's...
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Posted: June 01, 2022Read more »
A healthy basking spot in the terrarium is the heart of every species-appropriate reptile habitat. Modern UVB metal halide lamps (HID lamps) offer a particularly effective combination of light, heat, and UVB radiation – perfect for all reptiles. But proper installation is essential!
In this guide, we’ll show you step-by-step what you need to consider – from lamp positioning to the electronic ballast (EB).Choosing the right UVB lamp
Metal halide lamps come in different wattages (e.g. 35 W, 50 W, 70 W, 100W, 150W). The choice depends on:
• Species (e.g. desert vs. tropical)
• Animal size (juvenile vs. adult)
• Climate of origin
The higher the UV requirement and the larger the terrarium, the higher the wattage should be. For specific lamp recommendations per species, check our Reptiles Expert Matrix or our dedicated blog articles here.Optimal distance to the basking spot
The distance between the lamp and the basking spot is crucial for effective UVB exposure: see Reptiles Expert Matrix... -
Posted: May 31, 2022Read more »
UVB for Chinese Water Dragons (Physignathus cocincinus)
The right UVB lighting for healthy and active reptiles
The Chinese Water Dragon (Physignathus cocincinus) is a striking, diurnal lizard native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia. Known for its vibrant green coloration and active behavior, this species has become a favorite among reptile enthusiasts. To keep your water dragon healthy and thriving, providing the correct lighting—especially UVB—is essential.
Why UVB lighting is so important
Like many reptiles, water dragons rely on UVB rays to synthesize vitamin D3, which is necessary for calcium absorption. Without it, they risk developing serious health issues like metabolic bone disease (MBD), muscle weakness, or growth disorders.
UV metal halide lamps – the best choice
Water dragons are very active and need lighting that covers both vertical and horizontal areas of their enclosure. UV metal halide lamps are ideal because they combine UVB, UVA, visible light, and heat in...
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Posted: May 29, 2022Read more »
UVB for Fiji Iguanas (Brachylophus spp.)
UVB light for vibrant and healthy rainforest dwellers
Fiji iguanas (Brachylophus vitiensis, Brachylophus fasciatus, and others) are among the most striking lizards in the terrarium hobby. Their bright green coloration with turquoise or yellow accents makes them true tropical jewels. Native to the islands of Fiji and surrounding Pacific regions, they are diurnal tree-dwellers and require well-planned terrarium lighting—especially in terms of UVB radiation.
Why UVB is essential for Fiji iguanas
Like many diurnal reptiles, Fiji iguanas depend on natural sunlight to synthesize vitamin D3. This vitamin is crucial for calcium absorption, which in turn supports strong bones, healthy muscles, and immune function. Without sufficient UVB, these lizards can suffer from serious deficiencies like metabolic bone disease or developmental issues.
The ideal light source: UV metal halide lamps
Because Fiji iguanas are active climbers, lighting must be effective...
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Posted: April 28, 2022Read more »
UVB lamps have the task of imitating the sun in the terrarium as well as possible. Modern UVB lamps emit very bright visible light, heat as in nature directly from above and UVB radiation, which is important for vitamin D3 synthesis. All of this decreases with distance. The greater the distance, the weaker the radiation. It is therefore important to choose the right lamp (wattage) and the distance to the animal. There are tools for this, such as our UVB matrix. In addition, the UVB values are listed for all our lamps in the web shop. A graphic shows the UVB values at distances of 20 and 40 centimetres.
You can also find the UVB values here as a summary...
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Posted: April 24, 2022Read more »
Ultraviolet light is outside of what is visible (to us humans) in the electromagnetic spectrum
There are 3 different types of UV light: UVA, UVB, UVC
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Posted: March 03, 2022Read more »
The main factors are:
Which animal is it? It needs more (desert dwellers) or less UVB light
Distance between the animal and the UVB lamp
This results in the recommendation for suitable UVB products
Adherence to the correct lighting duration per day -
Posted: October 14, 2021Read more »
The simple answer to this: yes - without any problems!
Modern UVB lamps for terrariums are so-called metal vapor lamps and require an electronic ballast. This electronic ballast starts the UV reptile lamp with a very strong ignition pulse of up to 5000 volts and then regulates it down. Metal halide lamps for terrarium lighting always require a ballast for operation. This is the most modern technology with the best light (very high brightness, balanced color spectrum, very good color stability) - but it doesn't work without electronic ballasts.
There are many different brands on the market. The best known are Philips, Osram, Tridonic and a large number of private label brands (often from Chinese production). Modern electronic ballasts are standard technology today.
