) But I have three 40 gallons right now and would like to some up with a better option for space and heat. I have seen that some people use heat tape/chord. Do BTS not need UVA/UVB rays like other reptiles? I know a few days without it and my chameleons would be toast. Are they similiar (in the matter of heat not genetically) to snakes?UVA/UVB lighting preferences???
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In this forum all are welcome to ask blue tongue skink-related questions, share information, ideas, tips, experiences, and pictures with fellow BTS enthusiasts.
If you are wondering if your BTS is acting normally or might be sick, this is where you can get help with that.
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In this forum all are welcome to ask blue tongue skink-related questions, share information, ideas, tips, experiences, and pictures with fellow BTS enthusiasts.
If you are wondering if your BTS is acting normally or might be sick, this is where you can get help with that.
This is also where you can have some FUN while sharing the enjoyment you get from your blueys!
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reaperreptiles
- Bluey Follower
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UVA/UVB lighting preferences???
So I have noticed in some earlier threads that some of you dont even use heat lights or UVB lights. I was curious as to what yours guys preferences were on the matter of heat. I am currently trying to weigh my options for creating a better setup for my tanks. I use low wattage bulbs, with one heat light on each cage. I have been trying to come up with a 'rack system' using my tanks, or even 'retire' my tanks for tubs (but I just like how the tanks look ) But I have three 40 gallons right now and would like to some up with a better option for space and heat. I have seen that some people use heat tape/chord. Do BTS not need UVA/UVB rays like other reptiles? I know a few days without it and my chameleons would be toast. Are they similiar (in the matter of heat not genetically) to snakes?
) But I have three 40 gallons right now and would like to some up with a better option for space and heat. I have seen that some people use heat tape/chord. Do BTS not need UVA/UVB rays like other reptiles? I know a few days without it and my chameleons would be toast. Are they similiar (in the matter of heat not genetically) to snakes?-
Katrina
- The Daredevil
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UVA can be obtained from any light source - they will get UVA unless kept in the dark, so UVB is the concern.
Lots of people have kept them without UVB for many years with no visible ill effects. Some breeders have kept them for decades with them breeding yearly, so there is really no evidence that BTS need UVB. Many assume that they will need it because of other, similar lizards like beardies. If not providing UVB then be sure to supplement calcium with D3 - rather than retyping, here is a recent thread: http://bluetongueskinks.net/forum/viewt ... ht=calcium
Generally, if people provide UVB it is a 'better safe than sorry' measure.
As for heat - lots of people believe an overhead heat source, mimicking the sun, is the better way to go. Heat tape or heat cable is ok - what needs to be achieved is the correct temp. gradient. But some believe and there are some studies I think that suggest that the heat on their backs is important.
Lots of people have kept them without UVB for many years with no visible ill effects. Some breeders have kept them for decades with them breeding yearly, so there is really no evidence that BTS need UVB. Many assume that they will need it because of other, similar lizards like beardies. If not providing UVB then be sure to supplement calcium with D3 - rather than retyping, here is a recent thread: http://bluetongueskinks.net/forum/viewt ... ht=calcium
Generally, if people provide UVB it is a 'better safe than sorry' measure.
As for heat - lots of people believe an overhead heat source, mimicking the sun, is the better way to go. Heat tape or heat cable is ok - what needs to be achieved is the correct temp. gradient. But some believe and there are some studies I think that suggest that the heat on their backs is important.
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Coomassie
- The Inked Chemist
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reaperreptiles
- Bluey Follower
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- Joined: Fri May 20, 2011 1:10 pm
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- Location: Hephzibah, GA
definantly an interesting threadReturn to “General Discussion and FAQ”
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