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Hello,

I am planning on getting a new basking area. The one that goes above the tank, but it only looks like there will
be enough room for one lamp. Could I just put the heat lamp over the basking area and then put the UVB over the water where the turtle will swim? If not, what would you do? I really want the out of water basking area so he has more room to swim and I can fill the tank up more. What kind of UVB bulb would you suggest? I have one right now but it’s almost been a year since i bought it so i think it time for a new one. Let me know !

Thanks !

I have a 55 gallon tank btw

UVB won’t be effective over the water. Maybe you can have the heat lamp at an angle? Or look into a MVB. They and UVB lamps should be pointed straight down.

Thank you ! Would a mercury Vapor Bulb be okay? It is UVA, UVB and heat all in one.

It puts out a lot of uvb/heat, so make sure your set up can accommodate one. You might need a stand for it, and if you have a cat, find some way to keep them away.

Okay thanks! So how high would you recommend i have it from the basking area? Sorry for all the questions, i’m pretty new to turtle keeping.

How high depends on the wattage. The mega ray from reptile uv is the most popular, check their Facebook page for a coupon on it. It will have directions for distance and make sure you have an accurate thermometer to make sure it does not get too hot.