Like other reptiles, aquatic turtles are ectothermic, which means that instead of producing their own body heat, they depend on external sources for warmth. This heat energy is used to digest their food, maintain bodily function, and stay generally healthy. Since turtles don't produce their own heat, we must provide the heat they need with heat lamps.
Turtles also require UVB, which is an essential wavelength found in sunlight. UVB is critical to helping your turtle's bones and shell stay healthy and strong, and plays a role in a variety of other functions.
The UVB output of the ReptiSun 5.0 Mini Compact Fluorescent is likely to be too low to be significantly beneficial to aquatic turtles. If you are looking for a UVB bulb for your turtle, we recommend the Zoo Med T5 HO ReptiSun 5.0 instead.
This kit includes:
- Mini Combo Deep Dome Lamp Fixture
- Repti Tuff Splashproof Halogen Bulb (50 watt)
- ReptiSun 5.0 Mini Compact Fluorescent (13 watt)
Dimensions: 11.125"L x 7.5"W x 6"H
UV Index:
3" below lamp — UVI >7
4" below lamp — UVI 2.6 - 3.5
5" below lamp — UVI 1.0 - 2.6
6" below lamp — UVI 1.0 - 2.6
7" below lamp — UVI 0.7 - 1.0
8" below lamp — UVI 0.4 - 0.7
10" below lamp — UVI 0.4 - 0.7
Distance is measured from the tip of the bulb to the basking area or reptile, without mesh interference. UVI is reduced by 30-40% when the UVB bulb is placed over mesh screen.
