Do Leopard Geckos Need UVB?

Yes, Leopard Geckos need UVB because their bodies cannot produce vitamin D3. They receive Vitamin D3 from UVB rays, which contributes to the process of calcium absorption within their bodies. While in captivity, they are provided with UVB by various UVB bulbs, however, in the wild, they receive UVB from the Sun rays. UVB Fluorescent lamps and Mercury vapor bulbs are the best bulbs for leopard gecko health.

How many hours of UVB do leopard geckos need a day?

There is no doubt that ultraviolet light plays an important role in Leopard Geckos' survival. Leopard geckos require UVB for two to twelve hours a day. UVB exposure during those hours is sufficient for leopard geckos' health.

A UVB light should be placed about 16 inches from the leopard gecko and no obstructions should be in the way of these rays.

Is the UVB light turned off at night?

Yes, you should turn off the UVB light at night because leopard geckos need UVB only during the day, while at night they only need heat. You shouldn't give leopard geckos too much UVB because too much UVB can cause serious health problems such as hypercalcemia and skin damage.

Signs a leopard geckos need UVB

UVB rays are very beneficial rays for leopard geckos. There is a great benefit to UVB rays for leopard geckos suffering from metabolic disease.

There are some symptoms of Metabolic Disease (MBD) are given below:-

  • Broken bones
  • Jaw malformations
  • Lethargy
  • A soft jawbone
  • Leg deformation
  • A decrease in appetite
  • Bowed legs etc.

These above symptoms also indicate that leopard geckos need UVB.

Do geckos need UVA or UVB?

UVA and UVB lights are both necessary for the survival of leopard geckos. A UV bulb emits both UVA and UVB radiation. When it comes to UVA to UVB ratio, UVB is a good choice for leopard geckos

In UVB, the body can create vitamin D3 which helps the body absorb calcium, while UVA manages various behaviors such as feeding and mating, and stimulates normal actions.

How much UVB should Leopard Geckos receive?

UVB Bulbs can help them receive UVB. For leopard geckos, UVB levels of 5 to 6% are ideal. Above 10% UVB, leopard geckos can suffer skin damage and other health problems.

Can Leopard Geckos survive without UVB?

Yes, Leopard Geckos can survive without UVB lights. The ultraviolet rays of the sun help leopard geckos maintain their health and immune system. It should also provide them with vitamin D3, which helps their bodies absorb calcium.

Best UVB Bulbs for your Leopard Gecko

As You know leopard geckos benefit very much from UVB bulbs. You should use UVB bulbs to keep your leopard gecko healthy. There are various types of UVB bulbs for leopard geckos available, including mercury vapor bulbs, fluorescent tube fixtures, linear fluorescent lights, metal halide lights, etc.

You can Buy a variety of these bulbs on Amazon.