Compact UVA Bulbs

[MaxGuy]

I'm thinking about getting a leopard gecko and I am looking at an 18x18x12 cage. Since it is so small, It will be harder to fit a tube flourescent uva bulb in so I was thinking about getting just a compact one. I heard that the compacts are bad for bearded dragon eyes, so I was wondering if it was the same for leos. I know that the uva light isnt needed as much as other lizards, but I want my little guy to be the healthiest he can be. I was thinking Zoo Med 5.0 compact bulb. Good or bad?

 

[indyana]

I think you meant "UVB"? I would say no. They do not require that much UVB, since most owners supplement calcium and D3 via food dusting. Leopard geckos are fine if the room gets a day/night cycle of natural light for windows and do not need their own lighting.

If you really decide you need a light to keep a day/night cycle, I would suggest looking at a low-wattage, compact natural light (2.0) bulb. This is what I am going to be adding to my own habitat, as my room is pretty dim during the day:

Edit: I can't seem to link to the 13-watt version, but if you look at the selection on that product, they make a 13-watt bulb as well.

Amazon.com : Exo Terra Repti-Glo 2.0 Compact Fluorescent Full Spectrum Terrarium Lamp, 26-Watt : Pet Habitat Lights : Pet Supplies

 

[Kristi23]

Leopard geckos do not need any type of lighting.