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Green anole hatchlings

22 13:31:11

Question
I have three green anole hatchlings. They live in a 20 gallon tank. I am in search of a bigger tank though. Temp stays around 75-85 degrees and humidity is around 50-70. I use reptile carpeting. They eat fruit flies, crickets (if small enough) and fruit baby food as a treat. They are either a month old or younger.

My issue is with the UVB light I had been using. Everyone tells me I should use tube lights, but I always have issues with them. I used it with them and I put it a few inches about the tank. They were getting dark spots on them and so I kept it off for a few days and the spots got better. Their skin looks wrinkly even though they drink plenty of water. The two oldest had little bits of skin come off and the spots are dark brown, almost black. They are also having problems with shedding. Are they burned? Should I take them to the vet or can I help them from home. I have been using a spray on them which is to keep their skin hydrated and also help with shedding. It doesn't seem to be helping. They are eating and drinking fine still and are very active. I will probably put the UVB up even higher now to keep this from happening again. The light doesn't give specifics...

Answer
Hello Jessica,

Well, which UVB fluorescent tube bulb had you used previously?  What brand was it?  There are some really bad lights out there.  
The best brand you can use is the Reptisun 10 but it needs to be at least 6 to 8 inches from your reptiles alongside a bright white basking light to protect the eyes.  
Yes, it does sound like they have gotten some burns.  It is most likely a form of Photo-kerato-conjunctivitis which not only affects the eyes, but can affect other parts of the body.
They will do best without UVB light for a week or so, in order for them to normalize.  

Tracie