Lugarti's Reptile UV Index Meter

Lugarti's Reptile UV Index Meter is a must - have tool for reptile owners. It helps you measure your light's capacity to produce vitamin D3 and figure out the right exposure time for your reptile. With a single - button design and a convenient Ferguson Zone chart on the front, it offers great user - friendliness. **Features:** - Spectral response is weighted to match the vitamin - D action spectrum in reptiles. - The Ferguson Zone chart on the front panel makes it easy to refer to. - It's compact, handheld, and built to last. - Simple one - button operation. - Ensures NIST traceable accuracy. - Comes with an LCD display. - Proudly made in the USA. **Applications:** - Measures UV irradiance in the wavelengths that enable vitamin D3 synthesis in reptiles. - Monitors the instantaneous UV index. - Allows you to track the UV index over time. The UV Index was initially created to assess human UV exposure outdoors. Scientists led by herpetologist Gary Ferguson, Ph.D., applied it to reptiles in terrariums. They observed different reptile species in various outdoor locations, took UV Index readings, and established four 'Ferguson Zones' for appropriate UV levels. **Which Zone is Right for Your Species?** - **Zone 1: UVI 0.4 to 0.7 (Shade/Crepuscular)**: Species here can be diurnal or crepuscular. They get their vitamin D from low - level UVB in the shade or at dawn/dusk. - **Zone 2: UVI 0.7 to 1.0 (Mostly partial sun/Occasional full sun baskers)**: Close to Zone 1, but these species may briefly bask in full sun. It's a safe level for many species and can prevent metabolic bone disease. - **Zone 3: UVI 1.0 to 2.6 (Mostly full sun/Occasional partial sun baskers)**: Covers many common reptile species. It's important to provide a UVB gradient to Zone 1 levels for proper photoregulation. - **Zone 4: UVI 2.6 to 3.5 or more (Mid - day full sun baskers)**: Includes desert species. A UVB gradient to Zone 1 levels is crucial, and avoid UVI levels over 8.0.

Using Lugarti's Reptile UV Index Meter is a breeze. Simply press the single button on the device, and it will start measuring the UV index. Place it in the area where your reptile spends most of its time to get an accurate reading. When it comes to which Ferguson Zone is right for your reptile, refer to the detailed zone descriptions. If you're unsure, Zone 2 is a safe bet for many species. It's important to note that for Zone 3 and Zone 4 reptiles, you must create a UVB gradient in their habitat. This means having areas with different UVB levels so that your reptile can move around and adjust its UVB exposure as needed. Without a proper gradient, your reptile could get sick, suffer eye or skin damage, or even die. As for maintenance, keep the device clean and dry. Store it in a cool place when not in use. Since it has NIST traceable accuracy, you don't have to worry too much about calibration, but if you notice any significant changes in readings, it might be a good idea to have it checked.