how many uv strip lights should be used for 8ftx4ft tortoise indoor enclosure?

Question

i've built a tortoise table but would like to know if one 48" uv reptile strip light is sufficient or should i use two along with my basking area for my 8ftx4ft tort table

Answer 1

I would use two. Most strip lights only emit UVB about 12 inches from the light and so with one only a small section would receive UBV.
Another option would be to use a Mecury Vapor Light. The T rex has the highest UBV output of any bulb on the market, also works as a basking light and covers an area 30" in diameter...they also last about a year and so you would be buying fewer bulbs.
Here's a link....
http://www.carolinapetsupply.com/catalog/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=44&products_id=165

Answer 2

What species? Forest tortoises (Red-foot, Hingeback, etc.) don't need a lot of UVB, while grasslanders do.

Also- what are the specs on the bulb? They usually suggest the right spacing, etc.

I think you'll need at least 2 if properly hung.

Answer 3

Since the cage is that big I would use MH( metal halide) bulbs. They are a little expensive, but so worth it, at that size of a cage. You can get them at just about any hardware store. Cost is about 150 a bulb.