How Many T5 Tubes?

[skoram]

Assuming a "typical" plant density (not super dense), how many Reptisun 5.0 HO T5 tubes would be sufficient to provide UVB to a panther chameleon in a 4 foot tall by 2 foot wide enclosure?

I am planning to purchase a T5 fixture for my new enclosure soon, and I am deciding between a fixture that fits just one tube, or 3 (couldn't find one locally in Korea that fits 2). I remember reading somewhere that a single tube fixture is much more efficient in transmitting UVB so I wonder if this would be sufficient.

 

[jannb]

You could get the 3 and use two UVB lights and a plant light in the middle but one UVB should be enough UVB.

 

[Cali Reaper]

I only use one and my chamies love them.

 

[skoram]

thanks for the replies all. Just purchased a single tube fixture. if it turns out to be insufficient I can always put another single tube fixture next to it. I assume this way there will be less UVB loss since each tube gets its own reflector.