Lighting 2

Mick Bajcar
Last update: 17 February 2000

In the July 1998 issue of the BDG Newsletter Marco Esposito described his method of lighting his vivaria using the Philips low-energy lamps as an alternative to striplights (see Lighting 1).  I would like to describe another alternative.

It is generally accepted that high light levels are essential for good plant growth in vivaria.  Whilst this is easy to achieve using striplights in large vivaria it can be difficult in smaller ones due to the problems in obtaining a high output power in short tubes.  I have been experimenting with what is effectively a folded fluorescent tube, a GE (General Electric) BIAX 2D lamp.  These are available in a number of output powers but the 38 Watt, 3500 K lamp seems to be the most suitable for vivarium use.  Whilst the colour temperature is not ideal, the very high light output produces excellent plant growth.

The dimensions of the tube are effectively a square 207mm x 207mm with a profile of a mere 35mm making them suitable for fitment even to the smallest of vivaria and without them intruding into the viewing area.  As they do not run hot, temperature problems are unlikely even in small vivaria.  Correctly installed, the lamp should have a life of about 15,000 hours at the normal light cycles used in vivaria.

However, there is a problem in that a special connector is needed, but I have managed to track down a supplier who can also supply the lamps and the other components needed for connection.  Incidentally they can also supply the waterproof connectors for straight fluorescent, considerably cheaper than the usual aquarist suppliers.

BERNLITE Ltd., 3, Brookside, Colne Way, Watford, Herts. WD2 4QJ Tel. 01923 255988

The lamp is connected in the manner shown in the circuit diagram:

WARNING
CAUTION should be exercised as the connections, whilst very simple, are at mains voltage and the connection should only be attempted by a competent electrician.  The connector is best fitted by cutting an aperture in the wire mesh ventilation panel of the vivarium.  It will then 'click-fit' due to lugs on the adapter. The tube is thus fitted inside the vivarium with its connections outside.