Terrarium Lighting

Natural sunlight is essential to the well-being of most reptiles, especially iguanas and other lizards. The ultraviolet rays in sunlight help stimulate the manufacture of vitamin D3, which controls the action of calcium in the reptile's body. This can help prevent calcium deficiencies, which can cause metabolic bone disease and other serious health problems in reptiles, particularly iguanas.

Terrarium pets do not have the access to natural sunlight that is enjoyed by their counterparts in the wild. Even when a terrarium is exposed to sunlight, the tank’s glass will block the sun’s beneficial ultraviolet rays. As a result, owners must provide their terrarium pets with another source of ultraviolet light.

There are many "full-spectrum" lights for terrarium animals available at PSP. These lights simulate natural sunlight and emit beneficial ultraviolet light. The most often-recommended bulbs are UV-B lamps in the range of 290-315 nanometers. Be sure to follow manufacturers’ instructions carefully when installing terrarium lights.

In general, full-spectrum lights should be installed over the terrarium with no glass separating the bulb from the tank. (Glass will filter out the UV rays.) However, be careful to position lights away from climbing branches or elevations to minimize the risk of a herptile coming into direct contact with the bulb and suffering skin damage.

Lamps should also be positioned at least 1 or 2 feet over terrarium pets to avoid damaging eyesight. Do not over-expose pets to UV light on its own, since this can cause health problems in herptiles. As a rule, young reptiles need more lighting than mature animals, and lizards need more than turtles.

The level of terrarium lighting should be reduced at night. This will simulate the day/night light cycle in nature, making the terrarium more comfortable to reptiles and amphibians. A peaceful nighttime feeling can be created by installing a light that emits blue wave length color during the evening hours.

Ultraviolet light should be provided to animals in addition to sprinkling calcium powder on their food. One is not a substitute for the other.