Are black lights harmful to reptiles?
I have two AP T8's with the 18" fluorescent bulbs, and I want to replace the regular tube with a black light tube (looks better, not as bright, etc.) I don't plan on leaving it on overnight (maybe an hour or two most if it is agreed upon that it is not harmful), just for when people want to see the cages and such but I don't want to put it in if it will be harmful to the snakes eyes/ruin the sleep schedule and all that. Anyone have any thoughts?
Re: Are black lights harmful to reptiles?
Quote:
Originally Posted by
kitedemon
True black lights are not very good for YOU. The fact is they are as bright you just can't see UV. Some reptiles will react very strongly to them (lizards) some not so much. Photo conjunctivitis is caused by UV light and as a black light bulbs are UVB and UVC with little UVA I would not suggest it to be a good idea.
Regular T8 Blacklight bulbs have phosphors that block UVC most UVB as the blue glow of UVA is the desired effect. There are of course bulbs that do emit high levels of UVB/C but those aren't something you would find at the local party store/hardware store.
Re: Are black lights harmful to reptiles?
Quote:
Originally Posted by
kitedemon
True black lights are not very good for YOU. The fact is they are as bright you just can't see UV. Some reptiles will react very strongly to them (lizards) some not so much. Photo conjunctivitis is caused by UV light and as a black light bulbs are UVB and UVC with little UVA I would not suggest it to be a good idea.
Hmm alright, ill keep the use to a minimum then. Im going to post a link of what I have for reference, thank you for the advice!
Quote:
Originally Posted by
The Serpent Merchant
Backlights mainly emit UVA wavelengths so they shouldn't cause anything serious, though I would keep an eye on the snake(s) for the first month or so.
I don't ever really use them. I have a flashlight by my bed if I feel the need to look across the room to check on the snakes.
The Regular T8 Blacklight bulbs have phosphors that block UVC most UVB as the blue glow of UVA is the desired effect. There are of course bulbs that do emit high levels of UVB/C but those aren't something you would find at the local party store/hardware store.
Here is what I have
http://www.lampsplus.com/products/15...lb__73370.html
