Are there benefits of using UV light

[-MARWOLAETH-]

With the setup I'm planning I'm going to use a combination of UV and day-light simulating flourescent tubes to light and heat the viv,with a rock wall to allow the snake(s) to get close to the lights and bask.I was wondering -Has anyone has observed any changes in activity,growth or colour when using UV light with garter snakes?

[snake man]

Uv is not necessary but should not effect your snakes in any negative way.

[Stefan-A]

The effect of UVB on snakes is largely unknown, but it seems that it's not as necessary for them, as it is for other reptiles. I have a study somewhere that would indicate that it might benefit snakes to some degree, but I can't be bothered to look for it.

[-MARWOLAETH-]

I'll stick it in anyway if not for the animal but for the plants.

[guidofatherof5]

No UV for albinos though.

[-MARWOLAETH-]

I don't like albinos so that's not an issue

[ConcinusMan]

A 2.0 bulb or one indicated for tropical species shouldn't hurt anything. Keep in mind the snakes don't actually get any exposure beyond 12 inches from the bulb. I think they do have a positive psychological effect on the snakes (appetite and increased activity) but a well-balanced "natural" spectrum florescent without UV would probably have the same effect and cost significantly less. As with any UV bulb, always provide shade/hiding places for them to get away from exposure.

[-MARWOLAETH-]

I nicked the idea of this thread Naturalistic Snake Enclosures With Fake Walls - A How To Guide (Pic Heavy) - Reptile Forums. Basically he found that in his wooden vivs,within a couple of inches of the tubes stays around 30C.He says it worked well with his marcianus and other temperate species.The background gives the animal a choice of temperatures and also lets the animal use more of the vivs space it also makes it look very nice

[ConcinusMan]

I think it would much better to put ecoearth/reptibark mixture in there instead of that crap they got going. I also see a potential for injury.

[-MARWOLAETH-]

I'll probably have to guard the tubes because marcianus are quite heavy bodied compared to those Psammophis.

Will plants root into the eco earth stuff?