{"id":2792,"date":"2020-01-02T14:52:49","date_gmt":"2020-01-02T14:52:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/reptilesguide.com\/?p=2792"},"modified":"2022-02-04T13:48:53","modified_gmt":"2022-02-04T13:48:53","slug":"best-uvb-bulb-for-chameleons","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/reptilesguide.com\/best-uvb-bulb-for-chameleons\/","title":{"rendered":"10 Best UVB Bulb for Chameleons – Reviews & Guide 2022"},"content":{"rendered":"

Chameleons are one those creature that needs sunlight to survive. Without sunlight, they will not get the required UVB radiation to maintain optimal health. Therefore, it is extremely important to choose the best UVB bulb for chameleons. They need UVB radiation daily to prevent metabolic bone disease (MBD) and other developmental disorders.<\/p>\n

UVB’s Role in Chameleon Health<\/h2>\n

When it comes to your pet chameleon’s health, UVB is very important. UVB is important because it helps the chameleon absorb vitamin D which they can then convert into calcium. Chameleons require proper lighting to be able to absorb the calcium that keeps their bones strong.<\/p>\n

One disease that commonly affects chameleons is chronic MDB or Metabolic Bone Disease<\/strong>. This disease is common among chameleons that are kept in captivity.<\/p>\n

In the wild, chameleons get plenty of UVB lights from the sun. Since they are coldblooded animals, they will spend a great deal of time under the sun.<\/p>\n

On the other hand, chameleons kept in captivity don’t have that option. The location of the cage where the chameleon is kept is usually away from the sun. Therefore, they don’t get the required UVB from the sunlight.<\/p>\n

UVB is also important in preventing loss of appetite. What they eat<\/a> and how often they eat<\/a> will depend on how much UVB lights they get each day. When chameleons don’t get enough UVB lights, they tend to not eat much and that could lead to health issues.<\/p>\n

In order to provide them the needed UVB lights, it’s recommended to put UVB lighting in their cage for the health of the chameleons.<\/p>\n

What To Look For In UVB Bulbs For Chameleons<\/span><\/h2>\n

Not all UVB bulbs are made the same. Some will produce just UVB rays, while others will produce both UVB and UVA rays. Additionally, some will have an “all in one” feature which combines UVA, UVB, and heats all in one bulb.<\/p>\n

To make sure you get the correct UVB bulb for your pet chameleons, below are the things to look for when choosing a UVB bulb:<\/p>\n

UVB Rating<\/h3>\n

UVB light bulbs are rated for the percentage of radiation emitted in the UVB range – it usually scales from 1% to 10%. Choose the correct bulb rating for the species of chameleon you’re keeping as a pet.<\/p>\n

For most species of chameleons, an output of\u00a0 5 percent of their total light in the UV spectrum is sufficient. <\/strong>These lights are labeled \u201c5.0\u201d light on the package of the bulb.<\/p>\n

Bulb Types<\/h3>\n

There are many different types of lighting available, but only four of them are best for pet chameleons. These are compact fluorescent, metal halide, linear fluorescent, and mercury vapor. Each light has its own benefits and differences in pricing.<\/p>\n

Compact Fluorescent Bulb<\/strong><\/h4>\n

Compact fluorescent bulb is popular to use in chameleon’s cage. These bulbs are relatively small in size and use less power. Due to their small size and consume small wattage, these types of bulbs tend to last very long.<\/p>\n

Most of these bulbs will usually have a spiral design. This design is to conserve space so it can be used in smaller spaces.<\/p>\n

These bulbs will usually come with UVA and UVB lights only. Due to its low power, it won’t be able to produce any heat. Therefore, you’ll need to get a separate heat lamp for your pet chameleons.<\/p>\n

The price for these types of lights is low cost.<\/p>\n

Linear fluorescent bulb <\/strong><\/h4>\n

Linear fluorescent bulb is long tube bulbs. These bulbs are popular to use on cages and terrariums that uses a hood type fixture.<\/p>\n

Another great place to use a linear fluorescent bulb is vertical to the cage. If you have a large cage, the light bulb may not reach all parts of the cage. To fix the problem, you can place the linear fluorescent bulb along the side of the cage. This will provide lights to the area where the other lights are not able to reach.<\/p>\n

The price of a linear fluorescent bulb is relatively cheap.<\/p>\n

Mercury Vapor Bulb<\/strong><\/h4>\n

Mercury Vapor bulbs have been growing popular steadily over the past several years. This is due to their long lifespan of around 12-18 months. Also, there “all ll in one” use combining UVB, UVA, and heat makes them a perfect bulb for chameleons.<\/p>\n

These bulbs are only available in high wattage, usually 100 watts or more. Therefore, their operating temperature will be high and will require a wire clamp lamp type fixture.<\/p>\n

Mercury Vapor bulb is generally expensive when compared to a fluorescent bulb.<\/p>\n

Metal Halide Bulb<\/strong><\/h4>\n

Metal halide UVB bulbs are new to the US pet trade but have been available for many years overseas. This bulb produces a very intense UVB ray, much higher than Mercury Vapor bulbs. Therefore it’s great for using in chameleon’s cage and other reptiles that love sunlight.<\/p>\n

These UVB bulbs use low electricity when compared to Mercury Vapor bulbs. It’s an energy-efficient solution for an all in one UVB, UVA, and heat source for your pet chameleon.<\/p>\n

Additionally, the Metal Halide bulb lasts a very long time as well. It can last up to 24 months according to the manufacturer Exo Terra<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Metal halide bulbs are the most expensive types of UVB bulbs on the market.<\/p>\n

Bulb Wattage Size<\/h3>\n

The size or wattage of the bulb is an important factor to think about when choosing the UVB bulb. Some of the things to consider are:<\/p>\n