Arcadia D3 Dragon T5 Bulb

The Arcadia D3+ Dragon T5 Lamp is the most powerful HO T5 UVB lamp in the Arcadia Reptile lineup. With 14% UVB and 30% UVA, this lamp is designed for reptiles that rely heavily on direct sunlight in the wild. The high UVB output makes the Dragon lamp particularly suitable for spacious or tall terrariums where there is a greater distance between the lighting and the basking spot.

This product consists solely of the T5 tube and is supplied without a fixture or reflector. The tube is available in 24, 39, and 54 watts. Always choose the same length and wattage as your existing compatible T5 fixture.

Arcadia D3+ Dragon T5 Lamp for sun-loving reptiles

UVB helps reptiles produce vitamin D3 naturally. This, in turn, supports the absorption of calcium from their diet and is therefore an important part of the care of many diurnal reptiles. UVA contributes to natural vision, activity, and the perception of the environment.

The Arcadia D3+ Dragon T5 Lamp is designed for reptiles with high UVB requirements. These include bearded dragons, uromastyx, blue-tongued skinks, frilled lizards, monitor lizards, various agamas, and tortoises. The lamp may also be suitable for other species if the terrarium is tall or if the UVB radiation needs to pass through a mesh cover.

A higher UVB percentage isn’t necessarily better for every setup. The right choice depends on the species, the animal’s natural sun-bathing behavior, the mounting height, and the enclosure design. By placing the Dragon lamp at the appropriate distance, you can create a strong yet targeted UVB zone.

The difference between the 14% Dragon and the 12% Desert

The D3+ Dragon produces 14% UVB and is more powerful than the Arcadia D3+ Desert, which produces 12% UVB. The Dragon model is particularly suitable for larger or taller terrariums, species with high sunlight requirements, and situations where there is extra distance between the lamp and the animal.

The 12% Desert lamp is often a good fit for terrariums with an average height and a shorter distance to the basking zone. The 14% Dragon offers greater coverage and makes it possible to achieve a usable UV index even at a greater distance.

The final UV level is not determined solely by the percentage. A good reflector increases the amount of UVB directed downward, while mesh can block some of the radiation. Therefore, place the lamp above a clearly designated sunning area and also provide shade, vegetation, or shelters.

Bright daylight with 14% UVB and 30% UVA

In addition to UVB, the Arcadia D3+ Dragon T5 Lamp produces bright, visible light with natural color rendering. This allows the colors of reptiles and the tank decor to stand out more clearly. The lamp provides a wide, even light zone, making it more suitable for elongated basking areas than a small UVB spot lamp.

It is recommended to use the T5 bulb in combination with a suitable reflector. A reflector directs more light and UV into the terrarium and helps make efficient use of the available radiation. For a complete lighting setup, the UVB bulb can be combined with a JungleDawn LED Bar. Heat is provided separately using a suitable basking lamp or other appropriate heat source.

Choose the right length for your terrarium

The Arcadia D3+ Dragon T5 Lamp is available in three sizes. The 24-watt version is suitable for small and medium-sized terrariums. With the 39-watt version, you can create a wider UVB zone in medium to large terrariums. The 54-watt version covers a large portion of a long terrarium.

The UVB lamp does not always need to cover the entire width of the terrarium. A lit area next to a deliberately created shaded area allows the animal to choose its preferred level of exposure.

Product Features and Variations

Instructions for use

Install the Arcadia D3+ Dragon T5 Lamp in a suitable HO T5 fixture of the same wattage and size. Combine the lamp with a reflector and direct the UVB zone towards the basking area. Adjust the mounting distance to the desired UV index for your animal species. Replace the lamp after approximately twelve months to maintain reliable UVB output.