UVB lighting: why it is vital for many reptiles
Vitamin D3, calcium and healthy bones
What UVB does in the vivarium
UVB light enables vitamin D3 synthesis and therefore calcium uptake – the basis for strong bones. Without UVB, serious deficiencies can develop, including metabolic bone disease, particularly in young animals.
Which species need UVB?
- Essential: bearded dragons, chameleons, tortoises and tegus – diurnal baskers.
- Recommended/beneficial: many geckos and snakes.
- Usually not essential: most nocturnal snakes such as royal pythons and corn snakes – although a day-night light cycle is still worthwhile.
UVB is almost entirely blocked by glass and acrylic. The UV lamp must shine into the vivarium unobstructed – never behind a pane or cover. Otherwise it has no effect, even though it is lit.
LED light alone provides no UVB – combine daylight LEDs with a proper UV lamp. UV lamps also lose output over time: replace them as recommended by the manufacturer (often after 6–12 months), even if they still light up.