Help with tank set up for Bearded Dragon

[dravenxavier]

I wouldn't even consider the current size of the dragon, and assume an adult size around 18". I usually recommend a minimum of a 40 gallon breeder for one, or a 75 gallon would be even better. Avoid 30 gallon and 55 gallon sizes, as the 12" width usually isn't appreciated.

As for lighting, you'll want a basking area of around 100-110F, with the rest of the cage getting down into the low 80's or so (the 75 gallon is better if for anything, this reason). You can use any type of lighting for this. I usually use halogens from Home Depot. If your room temperature is too low at night, look into an infrared or ceramic bulb, though. You will also need UVB, so you will need a fluorescent light for this. Incandescent reptile bulbs don't do it, and that's a common misconception people have. I usually use either ZooMed or ExoTerra brands. You will usually see a number as well, such as 2.0, 5.0, 8.0, etc. You want to go high, like an 8.0 or 10.0. Replace this bulb every 6 months.

Everyone has their own way of doing these things, so it's not uncommon to get a ton of different answers. I'm sure someone else on here might have some other suggestions.

[archie22]

Originally Posted by dravenxavier

I wouldn't even consider the current size of the dragon, and assume an adult size around 18". I usually recommend a minimum of a 40 gallon breeder for one, or a 75 gallon would be even better. Avoid 30 gallon and 55 gallon sizes, as the 12" width usually isn't appreciated.

As for lighting, you'll want a basking area of around 100-110F, with the rest of the cage getting down into the low 80's or so (the 75 gallon is better if for anything, this reason). You can use any type of lighting for this. I usually use halogens from Home Depot. If your room temperature is too low at night, look into an infrared or ceramic bulb, though. You will also need UVB, so you will need a fluorescent light for this. Incandescent reptile bulbs don't do it, and that's a common misconception people have. I usually use either ZooMed or ExoTerra brands. You will usually see a number as well, such as 2.0, 5.0, 8.0, etc. You want to go high, like an 8.0 or 10.0. Replace this bulb every 6 months.

Everyone has their own way of doing these things, so it's not uncommon to get a ton of different answers. I'm sure someone else on here might have some other suggestions.

Well I don't know if I didn't know how to explain myself, I mean the beardie is 12", not that I was getting a 12" tank haha.

Thanks for the information. Well, my room is not insulated. So unfortunately, when its cold outside its REALLY cold, and when its warm, its VERY warm. I hate it, so should I use a ceramic or not?

So then, depending on the brand, I would use for example: ReptiSun 10.0, Zilla desert 50, and what about exo terra? I couldn't find which bulb that would be. I might end up getting the zillas. And as for the tank, I have no idea how much thats going to cost, but I have no choice I guess