[aquapimp]

Hello,

Hoping some of you guys can share some husbandry advice.

Over my Uroplatus enclosures, I'm installing 2 48" T8 Reptisun 5.0 bulbs. I realize this is a low to moderate exposure. My question is in regards to supplementation.

Which are you guys using? I've used Miner-all "indoor" for years with great success on my Nephrurus etc. But, since the Uroplatus seem to relish soaking up some rays, would it make sense to use some "outdoor" formula alternately?

My theory is that if the UV is necessary, then, part of its purpose is for D3 and calcium assimilation, hence "backing off" on formulas intended for "indoor" herps with minimal exposure to proper lighting.

My plan is to as always, feed my bugs with a super calcium rich diet, and then lightly dust with both the indoor and outdoor formulas, switching back and forth roughly at a 1:1 ratio.

It has always seemed odd to me when keepers CAKE all their prey items with supplements at every feeding. I have never seen a "white powdered" insect in nature. Keep in mind, that I do feed my fodder VERY well.

Thoughts and suggestions appreciated!

[D.B.Johnson]

I've used zoo med 5.0's and minerall outdoor with my leaftails for a few years now. I think it's a good idea. I only occasionally give them vitamin supplements (anything but herptivite--yeah I said it).

Doug

[jadrig]

I only put UV on my leaftails within the past couple months...Because someone gave me a couple C.B. Meller's chams with a couple extra light fixtures...

I can tell you that the Henkels DONT need UV or even much light at all to breed/stimulate breeding/or even to help absorb calcium...

I had all of the babies hatch with well developed calcium sacs...

The UV might make their colors nicer, and possibly help them out in other ways, but I know for sure that it is NOT necessary for this species to have UV.

I know it also helps out the coloration in my satanics, but thats only if they leave themselves exposed to the light...

These geckos are definitely not like the diurnal chameleons or even day geckos, when it comes to calium needs, but breeding females and growing babies need more calcium...

I dust most feedings with rep cal while supplementing my females with babyfood/repcal mix through an eyedropper...

[aquapimp]

thanks for the replies... I have found that my phantasticus love to bask under the florescents. Perhaps they are simply seeking warmth and not the UV. I will say that the colors on these guys are simply amazing.

[jay markert]

hey this is jay markert.ive been breeding uroplatus sikorae with great suscsess.Igive my breeding pairs d3 and calcium supplements twice a week.I have hatch 26 sikorae eggs with no problem.Im not useing uv bulbs ,only on my fimbriatus ,and i still give them d3 and calcium once a week.If anyone needs help with uroplatus,please feel free to give me a email.uroplatusbyjay@gmail.com . .. thanks jay.

[jay markert]

hey this is jay markert.I use d3 and calcium supplements for my u.sikorae twice a week with great results.I dont use uv lighting at all.this year i have hatched 26 u.sikorae f2 with no problems.All my sikorae are doing great,hope this info helps

[Scott F]

I run one Zoo Med 5.0 linear tube over the enclosure length wise. I also suppliment with the Rapashy Calcium Plus two times a week on average, maybe three; Seems like a well balanced product, and it is designed to be used as a frequent suppliment. Hatchlings grow well and females have large chalk sacs. They seem to regulate there exposure to the UV as needed. I gut load the crickets, with fresh orange slices, grated carrots, and Repashy Cricket Gut Load.

[jay markert]

Hey scott,this is jay markert.Just wanted to know if you breed u.sikorae.I have 15 cb f2 subadult sikorae for sale or trade.Im looking for cb for new blood for my colony.Ijust got two pair wc in three weeks ago,they are doing great.I would still like to find cb sikorae.Any word on uvb project on uroplatus yet.thanks jay markert work email is jmarkert@nashvillezoo.org

[Jody Ettema]

I am not using any uv, but use a lot of miner all indoor.