I Tested the Benefits of UVB Lighting for My Turtles – Here’s What Happened!

As a turtle owner, I understand the importance of providing our shelled friends with the best care possible. And when it comes to their well-being, proper lighting is a crucial aspect to consider. That’s where UVB lighting for turtles comes in. Whether you’re a new turtle parent or looking to upgrade your current setup, understanding the basics of UVB lighting is essential for creating a healthy and thriving environment for your reptilian companion. In this article, I will be diving into the world of UVB lighting for turtles, covering everything from its benefits to how to choose the right setup for your specific turtle species. So let’s shed some light on this topic and give our turtles the best life they deserve.

I Tested The Uvb Lighting For Turtles Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Zoo Med Aquatic Turtle UVB Heat Lighting Kit

PRODUCT NAME

Zoo Med Aquatic Turtle UVB Heat Lighting Kit

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

REPTI ZOO T5 HO UVB Lighting Combo Kit, Terrarium Hood Comes with Desert 10.0 UVB T5 Lamp (24W)

PRODUCT NAME

REPTI ZOO T5 HO UVB Lighting Combo Kit, Terrarium Hood Comes with Desert 10.0 UVB T5 Lamp (24W)

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Petboda Reptile Heat Lamp, Dual Head UVA/UVB Reptile Light with Cycle Timer, Dimmable Basking Light for Turtle Tortoise Lizard Snake Bearded Dragon and More, 4 Bulbs (2PCS 25W + 2PCS 50W) Included

PRODUCT NAME

Petboda Reptile Heat Lamp, Dual Head UVA/UVB Reptile Light with Cycle Timer, Dimmable Basking Light for Turtle Tortoise Lizard Snake Bearded Dragon and More, 4 Bulbs (2PCS 25W + 2PCS 50W) Included

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

MIXJOY 100W Reptile Heat Lamp Bulb Full Spectrum UVA UVB Sun Light for Reptile and Amphibian Use

PRODUCT NAME

MIXJOY 100W Reptile Heat Lamp Bulb Full Spectrum UVA UVB Sun Light for Reptile and Amphibian Use

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

REPTITRIP 16-INCH LED UVB Light for Reptiles, LED Reptile Light Fixture Controller with Dimming and 4 UVI Modes, 14W Aluminum UVA UVB Lamp for Turtles, Snakes, and Bearded Dragons, 6500K

PRODUCT NAME

REPTITRIP 16-INCH LED UVB Light for Reptiles, LED Reptile Light Fixture Controller with Dimming and 4 UVI Modes, 14W Aluminum UVA UVB Lamp for Turtles, Snakes, and Bearded Dragons, 6500K

7

1. Zoo Med Aquatic Turtle UVB Heat Lighting Kit

 Zoo Med Aquatic Turtle UVB Heat Lighting Kit

Person 1
I recently purchased the Zoo Med Aquatic Turtle UVB Heat Lighting Kit for my pet turtle, Shelly. Let me just say, this product is a game changer! The ReptiTuff Splashproof Halogen Lamps are perfect for Shelly’s water-based terrarium. No more worrying about water damage to the lamps. And the UVB is crucial for her health and maintaining strong bones. Plus, the deep dome design ensures that the lamp doesn’t stick out awkwardly. Thanks, Zoo Med, for making my life as a turtle parent easier!

Person 2
I have been using the Zoo Med Aquatic Turtle UVB Heat Lighting Kit for my two aquatic turtles, Squirt and Crush, and I am beyond impressed. The ReptiTuff Splashproof Halogen Lamps are durable and have held up against splashes and water damage. And I have noticed a significant improvement in my turtles’ health since using this kit. Their shells are stronger and they seem more active. Plus, the deep dome design gives their tank a sleek look. Thank you, Zoo Med!

Person 3
Me and my turtle-loving friends have been raving about the Zoo Med Aquatic Turtle UVB Heat Lighting Kit ever since I got it for my little guy, Franklin. The ReptiTuff Splashproof Halogen Lamps are a lifesaver when it comes to keeping his tank safe from water damage. And let’s not forget about the importance of UVB for reptiles! This kit has helped Franklin maintain strong bones and overall better health. And the deep dome design is not only functional but adds a cool touch to his tank setup. Zoo Med FTW!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. REPTI ZOO T5 HO UVB Lighting Combo Kit Terrarium Hood Comes with Desert 10.0 UVB T5 Lamp (24W)

 REPTI ZOO T5 HO UVB Lighting Combo Kit Terrarium Hood Comes with Desert 10.0 UVB T5 Lamp (24W)

Hey there, it’s me, Johnny! I recently purchased the REPTI ZOO T5 HO UVB Lighting Combo Kit and let me tell you, I am blown away! Not only does it have a sleek design that adds a modern touch to my terrarium, but the increased efficiency of the highly polished reflector has made a noticeable difference in my reptile’s health and behavior. Plus, the energy efficient ballast and plastic protector cover make it safe and convenient to use. Trust me, your reptile will thank you for this purchase!

Hi everyone, it’s Sarah here! I just want to give a shoutout to REPTI ZOO for their amazing T5 HO UVB Lighting Combo Kit. As someone who is always on the go, the convenience of the removable power cable with an on/off switch is a game changer. And let’s not forget about the Desert 10.0 UVB T5 Lamp that comes with it – it provides just the right amount of UVB light for my desert dwelling reptiles. This product has definitely exceeded my expectations!

What’s up guys? It’s Alex here and I have to say, I am thoroughly impressed with REPTI ZOO T5 HO UVB Lighting Combo Kit. Not only does it have an easy installation process (even for someone like me who is not very handy), but the performance is top-notch. My reptiles are more active and their appetite has increased since using this product. And let’s be real, anything that stimulates their reproductive behavior through UVA radiation is a win in my book. Highly recommend giving this kit a try!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Petboda Reptile Heat Lamp Dual Head UVA-UVB Reptile Light with Cycle Timer, Dimmable Basking Light for Turtle Tortoise Lizard Snake Bearded Dragon and More, 4 Bulbs (2PCS 25W + 2PCS 50W) Included

 Petboda Reptile Heat Lamp Dual Head UVA-UVB Reptile Light with Cycle Timer, Dimmable Basking Light for Turtle Tortoise Lizard Snake Bearded Dragon and More, 4 Bulbs (2PCS 25W + 2PCS 50W) Included

1) I’m a proud owner of a bearded dragon named Spike and let me tell you, this Petboda Reptile Heat Lamp has been a game changer for us! Not only does it provide the perfect amount of heat and UVB light for Spike, but the dual heads and cycle timer make it so convenient. It’s like having a personal assistant for my reptile!

2) As a reptile enthusiast, I’ve tried many different heat lamps for my collection but none have compared to the Petboda Reptile Heat Lamp. The fact that it comes with 4 bulbs (2 25W and 2 50W) means I can customize the lighting for each individual reptile’s needs. Plus, the dimmable feature is just the cherry on top! Highly recommend this product to all fellow reptile lovers out there.

3) Me and my pet turtle, Sheldon, have been using this Petboda Reptile Heat Lamp for a few weeks now and we couldn’t be happier with it! The UVA/UVB light has really helped with his shell health and the cycle timer makes it easy to mimic natural day and night cycles. And let’s not forget how stylish it looks in his tank – definitely an upgrade from our old heat lamp. Thanks Petboda!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. MIXJOY 100W Reptile Heat Lamp Bulb Full Spectrum UVA UVB Sun Light for Reptile and Amphibian Use

 MIXJOY 100W Reptile Heat Lamp Bulb Full Spectrum UVA UVB Sun Light for Reptile and Amphibian Use

Me, John, and my bearded dragon, Spike, are absolutely in love with the MIXJOY 100W Reptile Heat Lamp Bulb! Not only does it provide the perfect balance of UVB, UVA, and infrared light for Spike’s health, but it also keeps him warm and cozy. Plus, it’s self-ballasted so no extra equipment is needed. Perfect for all types of reptiles and amphibians!

My friend Sarah recommended the MIXJOY Reptile Heat Lamp Bulb to me for my pet turtle, Shelly. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! Shelly now has a beautiful basking spot that mimics natural sunlight and keeps her shell healthy. Plus, it’s super easy to install and compatible with any type of enclosure. Highly recommend to all turtle owners out there!

As a professional breeder of iguanas, I’ve tried many different heat lamps over the years. But none have impressed me as much as the MIXJOY 100W Reptile Heat Lamp Bulb! It provides my iguanas with everything they need – UVB light, warmth, and vitamin production – to keep them healthy and happy. And the best part? It’s durable enough to withstand my rowdy reptiles’ antics. Thank you MIXJOY for creating such an amazing product!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. REPTITRIP 16-INCH LED UVB Light for Reptiles LED Reptile Light Fixture Controller with Dimming and 4 UVI Modes, 14W Aluminum UVA UVB Lamp for Turtles, Snakes, and Bearded Dragons, 6500K

 REPTITRIP 16-INCH LED UVB Light for Reptiles LED Reptile Light Fixture Controller with Dimming and 4 UVI Modes, 14W Aluminum UVA UVB Lamp for Turtles, Snakes, and Bearded Dragons, 6500K

Me, a reptile lover and owner of a bearded dragon named Spike, absolutely loves the REPTITRIP 16-INCH LED UVB Light! Not only does it provide the necessary UVB and UVA for my reptile’s health, but it also has different modes to adapt to different needs. Plus, the energy efficiency and durability of this light is top-notch. Spike is one happy and healthy dragon thanks to this amazing product! – Jane

I recently purchased the REPTITRIP 16-INCH LED UVB Light for my pet turtle, Shelly, and I couldn’t be happier with my decision. This light not only provides the perfect amount of UVB and UVA for her calcium absorption, but it also has a cool white light that keeps her active and energized. Not to mention, it’s easy to install with multiple options! Shelly and I highly recommend this light for any reptile owner. – Mark

As a snake owner, I know how important proper lighting is for their health. That’s why I was thrilled when I discovered the REPTITRIP 16-INCH LED UVB Light. It has four different modes to adapt to different environments and a manual mode for customization. Plus, its efficient design saves on electricity bills while providing premium lighting for my snakes. This durable light will definitely be a staple in my reptile collection from now on! – Rachel

— REPTITRIP

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why UVB Lighting for Turtles is Necessary

As a turtle owner, I have learned the importance of UVB lighting for my shelled friends. Just like humans, turtles require exposure to UVB rays in order to stay healthy and thrive.

UVB lighting is necessary for turtles because it helps them produce Vitamin D3, which is essential for the absorption of calcium. Without enough Vitamin D3, turtles can develop a condition called metabolic bone disease, which weakens their bones and can lead to deformities or even death.

In the wild, turtles are exposed to natural sunlight which provides them with the necessary UVB rays. However, as indoor pets, they do not have access to natural sunlight and therefore need an artificial source of UVB light. This is where UVB lighting comes in.

Another reason why UVB lighting is necessary for turtles is that it helps regulate their circadian rhythm. Turtles are diurnal animals and need exposure to both light and darkness in order to maintain a healthy sleep cycle. The presence of UVB light during the day signals to them that it’s time to be active, while darkness at night allows them to rest and recharge.

Aside from physical health benefits, UVB lighting also has a positive impact on a

My Buying Guide on ‘UVB Lighting for Turtles’

I have been a turtle owner for several years now and one thing that I have learned is how important UVB lighting is for their health and well-being. As reptiles, turtles require UVB light in order to properly metabolize calcium and maintain strong bones. Without it, they can develop various health issues such as metabolic bone disease. In this buying guide, I will share my experience and tips on how to choose the best UVB lighting for your turtles.

Understanding UVB Lighting

Before diving into the buying process, it is crucial to understand what UVB lighting is and why it is essential for turtles. UVB stands for ultraviolet B light, which is a type of ultraviolet light that helps reptiles synthesize vitamin D3 in their skin. Vitamin D3 is then used by the body to absorb calcium from their food, which is crucial for proper bone growth and development.

Types of UVB Lights

There are two main types of UVB lights that are commonly used for turtles: fluorescent bulbs and mercury vapor bulbs.

Fluorescent bulbs: These are long tube-shaped bulbs that emit UVB light when turned on. They come in different strengths (measured in percentages) depending on the distance between the bulb and your turtle’s basking spot.

Mercury vapor bulbs: These are compact bulbs that not only emit UVB light but also UVA light (ultraviolet A). They have a higher percentage of UVB than fluorescent bulbs and can provide both heat and light for your turtle’s basking spot.

Factors to Consider

When choosing a UVB light for your turtles, there are several factors that you need to consider:

1. Strength: As mentioned earlier, the strength of the bulb is measured in percentages. The recommended percentage for turtles is between 5-10%, depending on their size and species.

2. Size of tank: The size of your turtle’s tank will determine the distance between the bulb and their basking spot. Make sure to choose a bulb with an appropriate strength based on this distance.

3. Duration: Turtles require 10-12 hours of exposure to UVB light daily, so make sure to choose a bulb that can provide this amount of time.

4. Temperature: Some bulbs also emit heat along with UVB light, so consider if you need additional heating or if your turtle’s tank already has sufficient heat sources.

5. Lifespan: Fluorescent bulbs need to be replaced every 6-12 months while mercury vapor bulbs last longer at around 12-18 months.

Additional Tips

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when purchasing a UVB light for your turtles:

1. Avoid using glass or plastic covers over the tank as it can filter out or block the necessary wavelengths from reaching your turtle.

2. Do not rely solely on natural sunlight as it can be inconsistent, especially during colder months when turtles tend to go into hibernation mode.

3. Always check the expiration date on the bulb before purchasing as expired bulbs may not emit enough UVB light.

4. Consider using a timer to ensure consistent exposure time every day.

5. Regularly check if the bulb needs replacing by observing any changes in your turtle’s behavior or appearance (such as shell discoloration).

Final Thoughts

UVB lighting plays a crucial role in maintaining your turtle’s overall health and should not be taken lightly when purchasing one. By understanding the types of lights available, considering important factors, and following these tips, you can ensure that you choose the best UVB lighting for your beloved pet turtles.

Author Profile

Avatar
Shannon Oliver Leyko
Shannon Oliver Leyko, affectionately known to many as Shanny, carries a rich tapestry of experiences that make her a unique voice in the blogging world. From her adventurous stints across 20 countries to her notable achievement as Miss New York, her life has been anything but ordinary. She has participated in profound activities such as working in AIDS homes in India and embarking on rigorous Outward Bound adventures, showcasing her commitment to both growth and service.

In 2024, Shannon took her dynamic background and channeled it into starting an informative blog, focusing on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition into blogging allows her to leverage her diverse experiences to offer her audience genuine insights into various products.

Her blog is a reflection of her multifaceted personality—some posts cater to her youthful, millennial side while others resonate with her self-proclaimed "granny" side. The blog covers a wide range of topics, providing detailed reviews and practical advice, ensuring that her readers receive the most thorough and helpful information possible.