DanH44
Member
My 3yr old Russian female needs better uvb lighting. I want to buy the 48 inch T5 hood. Would a 5.0 or 10.0 be proper for a bulb?
Lighting
- Thread starter DanH44
- Start date
You don't need a 46" tube. a 22" or 34" would do it. I recommend the Arcadia 12% HO tubes. Strong UV and long lasting. I recommend setting the UV on a timer to run for 1-3 hours mid day only. Use LEDs and an incandescent flood bulb for light and heat the rest of the time.
With any UV tube, you will need a UV meter to set the height correctly and monitor the UV output over time. Used the way I suggest, that bulb should last 3 or more years, so the matter will save you money in the long run, while also allowing you to ensure your tortoise is getting what it needs.
Solarmeter® Model 6.5R Reptile UV Index Meter
Solarmeter instruments are compact, handheld, and durable with simple single-button operation and NIST traceable accuracy. Model 6.5R has spectral response erythemally weighted to match vitamin d3 synthesis in reptiles.
www.solarmeter.com
DanH44
Member
I was hoping the zoomed t5 would work because I have a chance at getting one cheap and wondered which bulb would be best. Is there any cheaper options for a UV meter?
