Do All Reptiles Or Amphibians Need UV Light?

Not all herps need UV light. Nocturnal species like leopard geckos do not require UV light in captivity
because they do not require it in the wild since they are only active at night and never receive UV. Most
people also agree that snakes do not require UV light since they obtain vitamin D3 from their prey items.

Other animals like Green Iguanas, American Anoles, and Bearded Dragons all need UVB light. Diurnal
herps from the tropics or desert will require more UVB than other herps and there are products specifically
marketed for these animals. Without UVB these animals will suffer metabolic disorders and softening of
their bones that will eventually lead to death years before their life expectancies.


There are several different ways of providing UV light to your animals. Common options include
fluorescent tubes, fluorescent power compact bulbs, mercury vapor bulbs and good old fashion sunshine.
Please also keep in mind that glass, plexi-glass filter almost all UV light. Even fine mesh can reduce the
amount of UV light delivered to the animal. That is why, if possible, there be nothing between the UV
light source and the animal.

Fluorescent bulbs that provide UVA/UVB light have been available for many years and are fairly
reliable. They are the least expensive bulbs, usually available for about $20 each or less. Please keep in
mind that there are few standards when marketing these bulbs and they are all not made the same. Some
manufactures such as Zoo Med® and Exo-Terra® as well as many others make excellent fluorescent bulbs.
“Black lights” or plant lights do not usually provide sufficient UVB light and are not appropriate for
exclusive use with animals that require UV light.

This is for guidance only and should not be used as the sole source of information. New information is being developed daily. It is recommend that a concerted effort be made to maintain up-to-date knowledge of the animals of interest. 

Source: Western New York Herpetological Society

              and The National Association Of Professional Pet Sitters