Are there benefits of using UV light

[Selkielass]

I have a mix of economic earth, potting soil and compost in my naturalistic habitat, and the freckle plant in a po sunk into the substrate has sent roots out of the pot and across the back of the viv- you can see them thru the glass where the soil doesn't get turned much during cleaning. Grass and ground ivy died- I don't think they got enough light.

[Foxrun402]

I recently added a Zilla T8 Florescent strip light rated "Tropical" that is 25 uvb... at 12" away she maybe gets 5-7 uvb off the light... It has been said to not be needed for garters or snakes... but in all reptiles it is supposed to help metabolize food and aid in calcium absorption from the food they do eat... I can't tell you if this is correct for snakes.. but it is for most reptiles...

Anyways... Since I added the T8 25 uvb strip... she has been alot more curious then normal... and a lot more active! I believe for some reason that it may be helping to stimulate a more natural environment making her a little more comfy... Other then that I haven't noticed any problems thus far...