Ultraviolet (UV) lighting is important for lizards because it helps to convert pre-vitamin D3 into vitamin D, which is then absorbed by the liver and turned into 25 Hydroxyvitamin D 2. The vitamin D plays an important role in maintaining the calcium to phosphorous ratio that when thrown out of whack can result in Metabolic Bone Disease.
Natural sunlight is the best source of UV lighting, but a captive lizard isn’t going to be able to get nearly the amount it needs. Special shortwave ultraviolet lights help to provide the required dose of UV rays to the animals in captivity.
UVA vs UVB
There are two main types of ultra-violent radiation. UVA and UVB:
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UVA
- Long wave solar rays
- Pass through windows, clothing, windshields
- Responsible for aging effects on the skin because it penetrates more deeply and causes wrinkles
- Some studies say it enhances the cancer causing effects of UVB
- Short wave solar rays
- More likely to cause sunburn
- The lighting used in tanning booths because it stimulates the melanocyte cell
UVB
Pet lizards need 5 (temperate climate lizards) to 10 (tropical and subtropical lizards) percent UVB exposure and the rest in UVA. Without the proper amount of UVA/B lighting lizards can develop MBD and other health problems directly related to not processing enough vitamin D in their systems.
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