The difference between T5 lighting and T8 lighting for reptiles and amphibians cannot be emphasied enough. Zoo Med's T5 High Output range offer both an increase in visible light and UV output compared to older T8 technology.
UVB: Reptiles need UVB for vitamin D production and calcium metabolism. Without UVB, reptiles can develop Metabolic Bone Disease in 6 months or less. This lamp, along with proper temperatures, will enable your reptiles to make vitamin D and process calcium from their diet.
UVA: Reptiles and amphibians can see things that humans can’t. UVA is part of the rainbow of colors that reptiles can see. UVA helps to increase activity levels, appetite, and reproductive behaviors. Without UVA, they are colorblind!
LAMP DISTANCE: This lamp emits beneficial UVB up to 90 cm from the surface of the bulb. Glass and plastic filter out UVB; there should be no glass or plastic between the lamp and your reptile. Fine mesh blocks up to 50% of light and UVB. This should be taken into consideration when determining lamp distance. The T5 HO ReptiSun 10.0 is designed for most desert reptiles housed in terrariums that are 45 to 90 cm tall. Always have the lamp at least 15 cm away from your animal.
WHEN TO REPLACE YOUR LAMP: This lamp will provide your animals with beneficial UVB for a period of 12 months when used 10 to 12 hours per day.
