UV-B lighting is essential for many reptile species and the leading preventable cause of metabolic bone disease in captive lizards and turtles.
Reptiles with inadequate UV-B suffer progressive metabolic bone disease that causes bone softening, pathological fractures, and eventual paralysis. The progression is slow and owners may not recognize deterioration until severe disease is established. MBD is painful - fractures occur during normal movement, and muscle tremors and weakness cause ongoing distress. Providing adequate UV-B is inexpensive compared to treating MBD, yet the disease remains widespread due to owner ignorance about lighting requirements. The reptile industry historically undersold UV-B requirements, and many traditional husbandry guides provided inadequate guidance. Current understanding of species-specific UV-B needs has improved dramatically.