Introduction

Bearded dragons are one of the most popular reptile pets around. They are known for their friendly personalities, unique appearance, and hardy nature. If you are thinking about getting a bearded dragon, it is essential to understand how to set up a proper vivarium lighting system.

Why is Vivarium Lighting Important?

Bearded dragons require specific lighting to stay healthy and active. Vitamin D3 is essential for calcium metabolism in the body, which is necessary for strong bones and overall good health. Bearded dragons get their required vitamin D3 from exposure to UVB light. Without proper lighting, bearded dragons are prone to metabolic bone disease, stunted growth, and other health issues.

Choosing the Right Lighting

The right lighting system for your bearded dragon vivarium depends on several factors, including the size of the enclosure, the type of bulbs used, and the distance between the bulbs and the reptile. Here are some essential things to consider when choosing the right lighting for your bearded dragon vivarium:

UVB Lighting

UVB lighting is essential for bearded dragons, as it helps them produce vitamin D3. The best source of UVB for bearded dragons is natural sunlight. However, if you live in an area where natural light is not available all year round, you will need to invest in a high-quality UVB bulb for your bearded dragon vivarium.

The most common type of UVB bulb for bearded dragons is a fluorescent tube. These bulbs come in different sizes and strengths. The strength of the bulb you need for your bearded dragon vivarium will depend on the size of the enclosure. As a general rule, you should aim for a UVB bulb that is at least one-third the length of the enclosure (e.g., a 36-inch bulb for an enclosure that is 4 feet long).

Basking Lighting

In addition to UVB lighting, bearded dragons also need basking lighting. Basking lighting is essential for bearded dragons as it provides essential heat for digestion and thermoregulation.

The best type of bulb for basking lighting is a heat lamp. These bulbs come in different wattages, and the strength you need will depend on the size of your vivarium. It is recommended to use a bulb with a wattage of between 100 to 150 watts for a standard-sized vivarium. Additionally, you need to adjust the height of the bulb to achieve the correct temperature gradient in the vivarium. The basking area should have a temperature of around 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Nighttime Lighting

While bearded dragons need UVB and basking lighting during the day, they also require a nighttime lighting source. Bearded dragons need a light source at night to maintain their circadian rhythm and prevent stress. The best source of nighttime lighting for bearded dragons is a red or blue bulb. These bulbs emit a low light that will not disturb the bearded dragon’s sleep cycle.

Setting Up the Lighting System

Once you have chosen the right lighting system for your bearded dragon vivarium, it is essential to set it up correctly. Here is how to set up the three essential types of lighting:

UVB Lighting

The UVB bulb should be placed in a reflective fixture that covers the entire length of the enclosure. The fixture should be positioned on the top of the enclosure, and the bulb should be placed about 12-14 inches away from the basking spot. You should aim for a UVB output of between 5-10%.

Basking Lighting

The heat lamp should be placed in a reflective fixture in the basking area of the enclosure. You need to adjust the height of the lamp to get the temperature gradient you need. The temperature in the basking area should be around 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Nighttime Lighting

The nighttime bulb should be placed in a smaller, low wattage fixture on the side of the enclosure. This bulb should only provide enough light to allow you to see your bearded dragon at night but not enough to disturb their sleep cycle.

Maintaining the Lighting System

Proper maintenance of the lighting system is essential to ensure the health and well-being of your bearded dragon. Here are some essential tips for maintaining your bearded dragon vivarium lighting system:

• Replace the UVB bulb every 6-12 months, as the output of the bulb will decrease over time.
• Replace the basking bulb every 6 months, even if it still works.
• Clean the fixtures and bulbs regularly to prevent dust and debris from blocking the light.
• Use a timer to control the lighting cycle and ensure that your bearded dragon gets the correct light cycle.

Conclusion

Setting up a proper lighting system is essential for the health and well-being of your bearded dragon. By choosing the right bulbs and setting them up correctly, you can ensure that your bearded dragon gets the UVB and heat they need to stay healthy and active. Always remember to maintain the lighting system and replace bulbs regularly to ensure that your bearded dragon gets the best care possible.