Can I use a regular mercury vapor bulb for my bearded dragon?

Question

Brands like Phillips, etc? Do they produce the same amount of UVB as a ReptiGlo

Answer 1

NO!  You must use mercury vapor bulbs made for reptiles...the other kind do not produce UVB.  These are the most popular brands

http://www.bigappleherp.com/REPTILE-SUPP...

These are excellent bulbs, which also give off heat.  They tend to be pretty expensive, and you must monitor their UVB output as they lose potency over time.  You still might need to replace the bulb every 6-8 months, the same as you would a fluorescent fixture.  A meter to read UVB output can be purchased.

Answer 2

your gonna get some mixed answers so be prepared to wad through some c**p. the answer is yes. the only difference is cost.  ALL mercury vapor bulbs produce  high amounts of uv a, uv b, light, and heat.