Basking allows turtles to regulate their body temperature, metabolize food, and maintain overall health. But choosing the right basking bulb is crucial. Here are some of our top picks for safe and effective basking bulbs for your aquatic turtle tank:
Mercury Vapor Bulbs (MVBs):
- Pros: Provide UVA, UVB, and heat all in one bulb, mimicking natural sunlight.
- Cons: More expensive, require a special fixture, need to be replaced every 6-12 months. SUPER BRIGHT. Like wow. Also, gets very hot so you will need to keep it at a slight distance from the aquarium.
Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs):
- Pros: Available in various UVB outputs, affordable, last longer than incandescent bulbs. Generally a little bit cheaper too.
- Cons: Does not emit heat, so a separate heat lamp is needed. These really may not be great for deep-bodied, bigger turtles.
Incandescent Basking Spot Lamps:
- Pros: Affordable, readily available, provide heat.
- Cons: Do not emit UVB, so a separate UVB bulb is needed, short lifespan. Get a few when you buy them, cause they will degrade within months.
Specific Bulb Options:
- Mercury Vapor Bulbs (MVBs): Zoo Med ReptiSun® PowerCone®, Arcadia Solar Pro®
- Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs): Zoo Med ReptiSun® 5.0 UVB Compact Fluorescent Bulb, Exo Terra® ReptiGlo® Compact Fluorescent UVB Bulb
- Incandescent Basking Spot Lamps: Fluker’s® Basking Spotlight, Exo Terra® Repti-Basking Spotlight
Important Note:
- Always choose a basking bulb appropriate for the size and species of your turtle.
- Ensure the bulb provides the correct UVB output (usually 5.0 UVB for most aquatic turtles).
- Position the bulb to create a basking area with a proper temperature gradient (typically 85-90°F basking spot, cooler water area).
- Monitor your turtle’s basking behavior and adjust the bulb placement or type if needed.
Consult a veterinarian or experienced reptile keeper for specific recommendations and ensure proper basking bulb use to keep your aquatic turtle happy and healthy 🙂
