Creating a thriving terrarium requires careful consideration of lighting, crucial for both reptile health and plant growth. This review focuses on the Exo Terra Tropical Plant Growth LED, a popular choice for beginners and experienced terrarium keepers alike. We'll delve into its performance, examining its light intensity, suitability for various plant species, and overall effectiveness in creating a balanced and aesthetically pleasing environment for both plants and reptiles. We will analyze its capabilities, exploring its limitations and highlighting its strengths to determine if it truly lives up to its claims as a best-in-class beginner option.This in-depth review will assess the Exo Terra LED's ability to provide the optimal light spectrum and intensity for healthy plant growth within a terrarium setting. We'll consider its design features, including the rotatable head for customized light distribution, and evaluate its practical application in a standard-sized terrarium. Finally, we'll offer a conclusive verdict on its value for money and its overall suitability for various terrarium setups, considering both the needs of the plants and the reptiles inhabiting the enclosure.
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Lighting Needs for Reptiles and Plants
Reptiles and plants in terrariums require specific lighting for optimal health and growth. While we can't simply use the sun, specialized lighting mimics its energy.
Heat lamps, fluorescent tubes, and LEDs are commonly used to provide both warmth and the light spectrum needed by the inhabitants. Different species and plants have different requirements, emphasizing the need for appropriate light choices.
The type of light source affects plant growth and overall terrarium aesthetics. This review focuses on the Exo Terra Tropical Plant Growth LED to examine its effectiveness in providing the right light for both reptiles and plants.
Exo Terra Forest Canopy 6500K LED: Features and Specifications
The Exo Terra Forest Canopy 6500K LED is designed for tropical plant growth in terrariums. Its 6500K color temperature provides a more natural, brighter light than the 4500K option.
A unique rotating feature allows for customizable light beam direction, optimizing light distribution within the terrarium and minimizing shadows.
The sleek, all-black design enhances the aesthetic appeal of the terrarium, complementing its overall appearance. It's designed for horizontal mounting and requires a suitable fixture like the Exo Terra Compact Top.
Light Intensity and Plant Growth
The reviewer used a lux meter to measure light intensity at different levels within a 12x12x18 inch terrarium. Results indicated high light near the top (20,000 lux), medium light in the middle (4400 lux), and lower light at the bottom (1500 lux).
This light intensity indicates suitable conditions for growing medium-light-demanding plants, but not high-light-demanding ones. The reviewer mentions several suitable plant choices, such as pothos, various philodendrons, and some ficus species.
While the LED may not yield intense red colors in plants like bromeliads, its overall performance is suitable for a wide range of common terrarium plants. The reviewer suggests using two bulbs for improved light penetration in taller terrariums.
Overall Review and Conclusion
The Exo Terra Tropical Plant Growth LED provides a good balance between price, performance, and aesthetic appeal. It's ideal for beginners and those with smaller terrariums (12x12x18 inches).
The light offers adequate illumination for a broad range of medium-light-demanding plants commonly used in terrariums. However, it might not be sufficient for high-light plants or for larger, deeper terrariums.
The reviewer recommends this light for its ease of use, effectiveness in creating a healthy environment for both reptiles and plants, and its overall value for money.