Lights

[34KING18]

In my old set-up of my enclosure, I had one 100 watt mercury vapor bulb that gave uva/uvb and heat. I was wondering. Could I just have one lightbulb for basking and then use a light strip that gives off uvb ?

Basking Lightbulb : http://www.petco.com/product/4969/Zoo-Med-Repti-Basking-Spot-Lamps.aspx

Light strip : http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002QI86U/?tag=exoticpetnetw-20

Does the lightstrip give off uva? Do tortoises even need uva?

 

[StudentoftheReptile]

Pardon my cynical attitude, but haven't we covered this in like...at least 2-3 of the dozen or so threads you've created in the past week?
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(sigh) The answer to all of your questions is: yes.

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Could I just have one lightbulb for basking and then use a light strip that gives off uvb ?

This is ideal in situations where you want to create a constant temperature. The heat lamp can remain on 24/7 and you can simply turn off the UV light at night.

If you go this route, I would suggest a ceramic heat emitter instead of a normal basking bulb.

Does the lightstrip give off uva?

Yes, most UV bulbs designed and sold for reptiles emit both UVA and UVB.

Do tortoises even need uva?

Yes. UVA falls within their range of vision on the light spectrum. It helps them see and identify plants, insects, other tortoise species, etc.

UVB is what helps them process and synthesize vitamin D3 and calcium. It promotes proper growth and coloration.