Keeping reptiles is fast becoming a popular past time among a large number of people. Reptiles are easily maintained and do well in a variety of situations. One of the necessities of keeping of reptiles is proper lighting, with the use of UV light bulbs. Reptiles need UV light bulbs provided to them to help maintain normal activity levels and behaviors such as feeding and breeding.

Types of UV Rays

UVA rays cannot be seen by humans, but can by reptiles. This specific UV wavelength promotes normal activity and behaviors in reptiles.

UVB rays cannot be seen by humans or by reptiles, but is needed by the latter for vitamin production. Therefore, the use of a UV light bulb is very important to the health of reptiles. Snakes, turtles and lizards need the UVB rays to convert the calcium in their diets to Vitamin D 3. Without the UVB rays from a UV light bulb, they would miss this vital nutrient.

UVC rays are by far the most dangerous to humans and animals in general. It is so dangerous, in fact, that prolonged exposure can change DNA configurations. As dangerous as UVC rays can be, they are still very useful in their own right. UV light bulbs that contain UVC rays are often used in aquariums and pools to sterilize the water, thereby killing any algae that may be present.

When keeping reptiles, a UV light bulb containing UVB light is necessary. This is the only way they can turn the calcium they ingest into vitamin D 3. The best way to ensure that your turtle, snake or iguana has the UVB rays it needs is to use a UV light bulb, specifically one that produces UVB rays.