Lighting Kits For 36x18x36 Terrariums
The best plant lighting for 36x18x36 Vivariums & bioactive terrariums
About Us & Our Recommendations:
We consider the above lights to be the absolute best options for 36x18x36 bioactive Terrariums & live vivariums, based upon proven statistics and experience. Our team has been testing vivarium & terrarium lighting professionally for over a decade now, and have built our entire lighting lineup based on manufacturer data, real world tests, customer reviews, and reliability ratings. We only offer products we've used and tested ourselves. The lighting found on this page is the same stuff we use on our own Terrariums & Vivariums, and those we build for our clients.
Why We Recommend These Lights For 36x18x36 Terrariums:
This part gets technical. Check out Vivarium Lighting 101 for more clarification!
Recommendations on this page were specifically chosen as the best lighting options for 36x18x36 Terrariums based on a number of factors. First we consider the basic aesthetic appeal by referencing Color Rendering Index (CRI) & Color Temperature (Kelvin). All of the lighting we offer features a high CRI statistic, and either an ideal color temperature (5500-6700K), or full RGB control. Those statistics help ensure the lighting will appear naturally accurate to the human eye. Second, we consider brightness (Lumens), since the enclosure will need to appear brightly illuminated for the best visual impact. Finally we consider the PAR statistics of the light source, which helps us determine how effectively a light will grow plants. When all of these statistics are weighed against the size & shape of your 36x18x36 enclosure, we're left with the above choices.
Result: tlk_rf_selected
Vivarium Lighting Kit w/Exo Terra Compact Top
A long-proven and inexpensive solution for 36x18x36 enclosures
Select Lighting Style:
Starting At $29.90
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Starting At $28.33
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Note: The in-cart option for 13W Zoo Med UVB 5.0 CFLs has sold out.
Note: The in-cart option for 13W Zoo Med UVB 10.0 CFLs has sold out.
Starting At $29.90
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Starting At $28.33
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Note: The in-cart option for 13W Zoo Med UVB 5.0 CFLs has sold out.
Note: The in-cart option for 13W Zoo Med UVB 10.0 CFLs has sold out.
Starting At $32.75
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Starting At $31.03
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Note: The in-cart option for 13W Zoo Med UVB 5.0 CFLs has sold out.
Note: The in-cart option for 13W Zoo Med UVB 10.0 CFLs has sold out.
$52.23
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$49.48
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$54.98
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$52.18
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Starting At $45.56
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Starting At $43.17
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Note: The in-cart option for 13W Zoo Med UVB 5.0 CFLs has sold out.
Note: The in-cart option for 13W Zoo Med UVB 10.0 CFLs has sold out.
$84.52
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$80.07
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$90.02
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$85.47
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Starting At $60.27
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Starting At $57.11
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Note: The in-cart option for 13W Zoo Med UVB 5.0 CFLs has sold out.
Note: The in-cart option for 13W Zoo Med UVB 10.0 CFLs has sold out.
$126.96
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$120.56
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Starting At $93.03
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Starting At $88.15
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Note: The in-cart option for 13W Zoo Med UVB 5.0 CFLs has sold out.
Note: The in-cart option for 13W Zoo Med UVB 10.0 CFLs has sold out.
$170.95
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$161.95
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$181.95
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$172.75
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Note: The in-cart option for 13W Zoo Med UVB 5.0 CFLs has sold out.
Note: The in-cart option for 13W Zoo Med UVB 10.0 CFLs has sold out.
Starting At $33.70
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Starting At $31.93
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Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 5.0 CFLs has sold out.
Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 10.0 CFLs has sold out.
$54.13
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$51.28
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$56.98
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$53.98
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Starting At $47.46
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Starting At $44.97
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Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 5.0 CFLs has sold out.
Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 10.0 CFLs has sold out.
$88.32
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$83.67
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$92.02
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$87.27
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Starting At $63.12
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Starting At $59.81
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Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 5.0 CFLs has sold out.
Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 10.0 CFLs has sold out.
$130.96
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$124.16
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Starting At $96.83
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Starting At $91.75
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Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 5.0 CFLs has sold out.
Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 10.0 CFLs has sold out.
$178.55
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$169.15
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$185.95
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$176.35
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Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 5.0 CFLs has sold out.
Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 10.0 CFLs has sold out.
Starting At $33.70
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Starting At $31.93
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Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 5.0 CFLs has sold out.
Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 10.0 CFLs has sold out.
$54.13
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$51.28
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$56.98
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$53.98
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Starting At $48.42
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Starting At $45.87
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Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 5.0 CFLs has sold out.
Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 10.0 CFLs has sold out.
$88.32
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$83.67
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$94.02
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$89.07
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Starting At $64.56
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Starting At $61.16
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Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 5.0 CFLs has sold out.
Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 10.0 CFLs has sold out.
$130.96
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$124.16
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Starting At $98.75
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Starting At $93.55
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Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 5.0 CFLs has sold out.
Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 10.0 CFLs has sold out.
$178.55
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$169.15
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$189.95
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$179.95X
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Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 5.0 CFLs has sold out.
Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 10.0 CFLs has sold out.
About Screw-In Vivarium Lighting Kits:
These are the best selling and most inexpensive solutions we offer. Each lighting kit includes an Exo Terra Compact Top, and your choice of appropriate lighting options. See the paragraphs below for details on each option.
About The Generic "Plant Growth" CFL Option:
Lumens:
~800
~800
~1000-1100
~1400-1500
(Each Bulb!)
Color Temp: 5000-6400K
UVB Output: No
Heat Output: Medium/High
Hide Statistics ✗
This is the least expensive way to go. The generic CFLs have a nice "daylight" (5000-6500K) color temperature and plenty of punch. These are a great option for planted terrariums which have low-to-moderate lighting requirements. We don't recommend them for use with our Moss Slurry, nor for enclosures which contain other high-light plants. Our basic CFLs do not produce UVB, so if your inhabitant species requires UVB output, please check out Zoo Med's Reptisun bulbs. (Details below) CFLs run relatively hot, so they are not recommended for terrariums housing heat-sensitive animals and/or plants.
About The UVB CFL Option:
Lumens:
~800
~800
~1400-1500
~1400-1500
(Each Bulb!)
Color Temp: Roughly 6000K
UVB Output: No
Heat Output: Medium/High
Hide Statistics ✗
If you'll be keeping an animal species which requires UVB output, be sure to check out the UVB option. The available Zoo Med Reptisun models are our absolute favorite screw-in UVB lights. For advice regarding which UVB bulb to use for your specific animal, please consult Zoo Med's PDFext. link.
About The Value Grow LED Option:
PAR / PPFD:
N/A
Up to ~40µMol/M²S @ 12in
Up to ~49µMol/M²S @ 12in
Up to ~49µMol/M²S @ 12in
(Each LED!)
Lumens:
N/A
~900
~1080
~1080
(Each LED!)
Color Temp: 6400K
UVB Output: No
Heat Output: Medium
Hide Statistics ✗
We consider Value Grow to be the absolute best budget-friendly terrarium LED on the market. These "Version 4" models have boosted both Lux and PAR measurements by over 100% since the original "square diode" models launched way back in 2014. With a 6400K color temperature, solid reliability, and a cool operating temperature, it's no wonder that these are our best selling LEDs. Please note the PAR rating provided was last tested 3+ years ago, and may have changed slightly since. We expect to have new data available in 2021.
Vivarium Lighting Kit w/Zoo Med Terrarium Hood
A long-proven and inexpensive solution for 36x18x36 enclosures
Select Lighting Style:
Note: Value Grow LEDs do not fit in Zoo Med 18in Fixtures
Note: Value Grow LEDs do not fit in Zoo Med 18in Fixtures
Note: Value Grow LEDs do not fit in Zoo Med 18in Fixtures
Starting At $32.75
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Starting At $31.03
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Note: The in-cart option for 13W Zoo Med UVB 5.0 CFLs has sold out.
Note: The in-cart option for 13W Zoo Med UVB 10.0 CFLs has sold out.
$52.23
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$49.48
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$54.98
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$52.18
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Starting At $45.56
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Starting At $43.17
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Note: The in-cart option for 13W Zoo Med UVB 5.0 CFLs has sold out.
Note: The in-cart option for 13W Zoo Med UVB 10.0 CFLs has sold out.
$90.02
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$85.47
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Starting At $33.70
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Starting At $31.93
(See details in-cart)
Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 5.0 CFLs has sold out.
Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 10.0 CFLs has sold out.
$54.13
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$51.28
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$56.98
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$53.98
(See details in-cart)
Starting At $47.46
(See details in-cart)
Starting At $44.97
(See details in-cart)
Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 5.0 CFLs has sold out.
Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 10.0 CFLs has sold out.
$91.02
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$86.34
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Starting At $33.70
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Starting At $31.93
(See details in-cart)
Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 5.0 CFLs has sold out.
Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 10.0 CFLs has sold out.
$54.13
(See details in-cart)
$51.28
(See details in-cart)
$56.98
(See details in-cart)
$53.98
(See details in-cart)
Starting At $48.42
(See details in-cart)
Starting At $45.87
(See details in-cart)
Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 5.0 CFLs has sold out.
Note: The in-cart option for 26W Zoo Med UVB 10.0 CFLs has sold out.
$92.02
(See details in-cart)
$87.27
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About Screw-In Vivarium Lighting Kits:
These are the best selling and most inexpensive solutions we offer. Each lighting kit includes a Zoo Med Terrarium Hood, and your choice of appropriate lighting options. See the paragraphs below for details on each option.
About The Generic "Plant Growth" CFL Option:
Lumens:
~800
~800
~1000-1100
~1400-1500
(Each Bulb!)
Color Temp: 5000-6400K
UVB Output: No
Heat Output: Medium/High
Hide Statistics ✗
This is the least expensive way to go. The generic CFLs have a nice "daylight" (5000-6500K) color temperature and plenty of punch. These are a great option for planted terrariums which have low-to-moderate lighting requirements. We don't recommend them for use with our Moss Slurry, nor for enclosures which contain other high-light plants. Our basic CFLs do not produce UVB, so if your inhabitant species requires UVB output, please check out Zoo Med's Reptisun bulbs. (Details below) CFLs run relatively hot, so they are not recommended for terrariums housing heat-sensitive animals and/or plants.
About The UVB CFL Option:
Lumens:
~800
~800
~1400-1500
~1400-1500
(Each Bulb!)
Color Temp: Roughly 6000K
UVB Output: No
Heat Output: Medium/High
Hide Statistics ✗
If you'll be keeping an animal species which requires UVB output, be sure to check out the UVB option. The available Zoo Med Reptisun models are our absolute favorite screw-in UVB lights. For advice regarding which UVB bulb to use for your specific animal, please consult Zoo Med's PDFext. link.
About The Value Grow LED Option:
PAR / PPFD:
N/A
~48µMol/M²S @ 12in
~48µMol/M²S @ 12in
(Each LED!)
N/A
Lumens
Color Temp: 6400K
UVB Output: No
Heat Output: Medium
Hide Statistics ✗
We consider Value Grow to be the absolute best budget-friendly terrarium LED on the market. These "Version 4" models have boosted both Lux and PAR measurements by over 100% since the original "square diode" models launched way back in 2014. With a 6400K color temperature, solid reliability, and a cool operating temperature, it's no wonder that these are our best selling LEDs. Please note the PAR rating provided was last tested 3+ years ago, and may have changed slightly since. We expect to have new data available in 2021.
About The Value Grow LED Option:
Incompatible w/Zoo Med 18in Hoods
Zoo Med's 18in Terrarium hood has offset bulb holders which won't fit a pair of Value Grow LEDs. We recommend using Jungle Dawn in this case, since the short 9W LED can be used on the shorter side of the fixture. If you had your heart set on using some Value Grow LEDs, it may be worth going back and checking out the Exo Terra fixture for this purpose.
Sunblaster T5HO Fixture w/Bulb
With Optional Stands + UVB Upgrade
$39.99/ea 18in
+ $5.99 For Optional Adjustable T5HO Stands
5% Off!
$37.99/ea 18in
+ $5.99 For Optional Adjustable T5HO Stands
This option has sold out!
Includes Fixture w/6400K Bulb, 6ft Switched Cable, Hanging Clips, and Optional Terrarium Stands
$44.99/ea 24in
+ $5.99 For Optional Adjustable T5HO Stands
5% Off!
$42.74/ea 24in
+ $5.99 For Optional Adjustable T5HO Stands
This option has sold out!
Includes Fixture w/6400K Bulb, 6ft Switched Cable, Hanging Clips, and Optional Terrarium Stands
$49.99/ea 36in
+ $5.99 For Optional Adjustable T5HO Stands
5% Off!
$47.49/ea 36in
+ $5.99 For Optional Adjustable T5HO Stands
This option has sold out!
Includes Fixture w/6400K Bulb, 6ft Switched Cable, Hanging Clips, and Optional Terrarium Stands
$54.99/ea 48in
+ $5.99 For Optional Adjustable T5HO Stands
5% Off!
$48.94/ea 48in
+ $5.99 For Optional Adjustable T5HO Stands
This option has sold out!
Includes Fixture w/6400K Bulb, 6ft Switched Cable, Hanging Clips, and Optional Terrarium Stands
NEHERP Staff Description
T5HOs are one of the most inexpensive methods of illuminating a terrarium. These fixtures are light weight, dependable, easy to mount (using our NEHERP terrarium stands), and include an excellent Sunblaster Horticultural bulb for plant growth. Considering all that and the expandability of the link cables and dock kit add-ons, these are our favorite T5HOs. They can also be linked to our Sunblaster LEDs, if you are looking for a UVB + high PAR combo solution. If using this type of fixture over a terrarium, we strongly recommend hanging/suspending the light, rather than simply allowing it to sit on top. Our terrarium stands elevate the fixture slightly, and even allow you to adjust the projection angle over your enclosure while minimizing glare!
Manufacturer Description
All SunBlaster T5HO Combos include our T5HO Electronic ballast, 6400K lamp, power cord with on /off switch, and jumper plug with both hanging and flat surface mounting clips. The NanoTech T5 Reflector spreads light wider across the plant canopy, penetrating deeper into the plant foliage, without consuming any additional power. The SunBlaster T5 NanoTech Reflector increases the light output as much as 48%, and also provides superior heat reduction by reflecting heat the was previously absorbed by the lamp and ballast into the growing area. This can help extend both lamp and ballast life.
SunBlaster T5HO lamps provide the ideal spectrum for seed, cuttings and plant growth. Photosynthesis outputs peak between 435 nm and 680 nm. Our 6400K T5HO lamps have a spectral distribution with relative intensity peaks at 435 nm and 615 nm. These are ideal for both propagation and longer term growth. This equates to very little wasted light energy in terms of plant growth and production. SunBlaster T5HO lamps are not off the shelf, our Full Spectrum light recipe was designed to provide the highest quality grow lighting available for a wide variety of indoor or CEA growing applications. Ideal for both Commercial and Residential applications.
Sunblaster LED Strips
An awesome value on a high output linear LED solution
$43.99/ea 12in
+ $5.99 For Optional Adjustable LED Stands
9% Off!
$39.99/ea 12in
+ $5.99 For Optional Adjustable LED Stands
This option has sold out!
Dimensions: 13.5in X 2.9in X 1.7in
PAR Specs: 147µMol/M²S @ 12in* PPFD
Color Temperature: 6400K / Lumens: 1600
Energy Performance: 133+ Lumens Per Watt / 12 Watts
*Note: PAR Data Tested On 18in Model and shown for reference.
$49.99/ea 18in
+ $5.99 For Optional Adjustable LED Stands
5% Off!
$47.49/ea 18in
+ $5.99 For Optional Adjustable LED Stands
This option has sold out!
Dimensions: 19.4in X 2.9in X 1.7in
PAR Specs: 147µMol/M²S @ 12in PPFD
Color Temperature: 6400K / Lumens: 2500
Energy Performance: 138+ Lumens Per Watt / 18 Watts
$59.99/ea 24in
+ $5.99 For Optional Adjustable LED Stands
5% Off!
$56.99/ea 24in
+ $5.99 For Optional Adjustable LED Stands
This option has sold out!
Dimensions: 25.3in X 2.9in X 1.7in
PAR Specs: 147µMol/M²S @ 12in* PPFD
Color Temperature: 6400K / Lumens: 3400
Energy Performance: 141+ Lumens Per Watt / 24 Watts
*Note: PAR Data Tested On 18in Model and shown for reference.
$79.99/ea 36in
+ $5.99 For Optional Adjustable LED Stands
5% Off!
$75.99/ea 36in
+ $5.99 For Optional Adjustable LED Stands
This option has sold out!
Dimensions: 37.1in X 2.9in X 1.7in
PAR Specs: 147µMol/M²S @ 12in* PPFD
Color Temperature: 6400K / Lumens: 5000
Energy Performance: 138+ Lumens Per Watt / 36 Watts
*Note: PAR Data Tested On 18in Model and shown for reference.
$89.99/ea 48in
+ $5.99 For Optional Adjustable LED Stands
5% Off!
$85.49/ea 48in
+ $5.99 For Optional Adjustable LED Stands
This option has sold out!
Dimensions: 48.9in X 2.9in X 1.7in
PAR Specs: 147µMol/M²S @ 12in* PPFD
Color Temperature: 6400K / Lumens: 6700
Energy Performance: 139+ Lumens Per Watt / 48 Watts
*Note: PAR Data Tested On 18in Model and shown for reference.
NEHERP Staff Description
We've been using Sunblaster brand LEDs in our grow rooms since late 2017, and they've proven to be bulletproof reliable in our real-world tests. (0% failure rate!) The newer model available here produced 37% more PAR output (147µMol/M²S @ 12in PPFD*) in our 2023 tests. These are the highest output linear LEDs we've ever tested or carried for this price. The ideal 6400K color temperature (pure white) helps to accurately represent natural colors within bioactive terrariums. Beyond great output & aesthetics, these LEDs also feature a reasonably low operating temperature and can be daisy-chained together with either more Sunblaster LEDs or our T5HO UVB Combo fixtures. (Link cable included!) While relatively new to our website, these LEDs have been available to our walk-in showroom customers for a while now, and client feedback has been universally positive.
About The NEHERP-Exclusive LED Stands:
Sunblaster LEDs have always been high on our list of recommended lights, but needing to hang them from something above was always a drawback when it came to terrarium use. To help overcome that issue, we developed nifty adjustable LED stands which make installation super easy. Simply select the angle of illumination you'd like (0°, 15°, 30°) based on the specifics of your particular enclosure's design, and place the LED toward the front of the enclosure for best results. Once installed, the stand will elevate the LED slightly for improved airflow & increased heat dissipation, and allow for the perfect angle of illumination. Please note: These are rough prototype LED stands in Q2 2023, which will be further refined by Q3. NEHERP LED Stands are produced in Connecticut from food-safe, heat-resistant material. Sorry, our Terrarium LED stands aren't sold separately!
Other Information:
• Sunblaster LEDs and our T5HO + UVB Combo share a compatible power connector, and can be daisy-chained together!
• Sunblaster LEDs can easily be automated using a smart switch or outlet timer. (No remotes, apps, or other frequent failure-points)
• Sunblaster LEDs cannot be dimmed. Do not connect them to a dimmer switch, as damage to the LED driver may result.
• Not rated for water-contact. Please don't mount inside of any enclosure, or where these LEDs may come into contact with water.
• NEHERP Terrarium Stands are not affiliated with or endorsed by Sunblaster Horticultural Products, and were developed independently.
• Compatible w/our T5HO + UVB Combo.
• Compatible w/smart switches & outlet timers.
• Not dimmable. Do not connect to a dimmer.
• Not rated for contact with water/mist.
• Not rated/recommended for in-tank use.
• Stands are not affiliated with or endorsed by Sunblaster.
Jungle Dawn LED Bar
A high output linear LED solution
Recommended for enclosures 12-16in wide + 22-32in tall
PAR / PPFD: 146µMol/M²S @ 12in
2534 Lumens / 15W
Recommended for enclosures 18-23in wide + 22-32in tall
PAR / PPFD: 155µMol/M²S @ 12in
3447 Lumens / 22W
Recommended for enclosures 24-30in wide + 22-32in tall
PAR / PPFD: 226µMol/M²S @ 12in
5587 Lumens / 34W
Recommended for enclosures 34-42in wide + 22-32in tall
PAR / PPFD: 242µMol/M²S @ 12in
7638 Lumens / 51W
NEHERP Staff Description
These new LED Bars represent color naturally (6200K) while providing an absolutely awesome amount of PAR light. Considering the increased output of these, we'd consider them viable for enclosures ranging from 22-32in tall. Some folks will have good results with even taller enclosures, if there aren't too many light-demanding plants down low. If you are looking for a lighting solution for even taller enclosures, we'd recommend checking out Jungle Dawn Spotlights.
Current Satellite LED Plus
A high quality lighting solution with adjustable colors & special effects
Amazon's prices on these can't be beat, so please visit the above link.
As an Amazon Associate, our small business earns from qualifying purchases ♥
Current Satellite LEDs offer a great balance between reliability, features, and price. We're fans of Current-USA especially due to their level of quality control and reliability, which is a tough subject for other brands. The Satellite LED combines bright 6500K (daylight spectrum) white LEDs with full-spectrum RGB diodes to offer a wide range of customizable colors & brightness levels. The diodes disperse light over a wide 120 degree angle to provide ample coverage. The remote is simple to use, and has four user-customizable preset buttons to recall your favorite settings. There are a bunch of other special effects too, including cloud cover, fading lunar, storm, lightning, dusk, and more which can be triggered with the push of a button. The unit resumes it's last-used setting when used with any typical outlet timer. The legs of the unit slide in and out of the fixture's body, and are a cinch to fit to any enclosure in the marketed range of each model. We recommend these for enclosures up to (but not exceeding) 16in tall. These aren't currently available at NEHERP, so check the link above!
Current Satellite LED Plus PRO
A high quality lighting solution with adjustable colors & special effects
$152.96/ea 18-24in
This option sold out, others may be available
PAR: 100µMol/M²S @ 12in / Lumens: 1500
Fits enclosures ranging from 18-24in wide.
Fixture Dimensions: 16.8in X 3.5in X 0.44in
LED Specs: 14 6500K Diodes/6 RGB Diodes
$170.96/ea 24-36in
This option has sold out!
PAR: 100µMol/M²S @ 12in / Lumens: 2000
Fits enclosures ranging from 24-36in wide.
Fixture Dimensions: 22.8in X 3.5in X 0.44in
LED Specs: 20 6500K Diodes/9 RGB Diodes
$242.96/ea 36-48in
This option has sold out!
PAR: 100µMol/M²S @ 12in / Lumens: 3100
Fits enclosures ranging from 36-48in wide.
Fixture Dimensions: 34.8in X 3.5in X 0.44in
LED Specs: 30 6500K Diodes/14 RGB Diodes
$287.96/ea 48-60in
This option has sold out!
Special Order: Add 1-4 Business Days
PAR: 100µMol/M²S @ 12in / Lumens: 3800
Fits enclosures ranging from 48-60in wide
Fixture Dimensions: 46.8in X 3.5in X 0.44in
LED Specs: 40 6500K Diodes/20 RGB Diodes
NEHERP Staff Description
The Satellite LED+ Pro has a 178% higher PAR output, and a roughly 150% greater lumen rating than the standard Satellite Plus model. Although more expensive, the Pro units actually offer a better bang for your buck in terms of Lumen & PAR ratings per dollar. These much more powerful LEDs also include a ramp timer to help automatically emulate natural sunrise and sunset every day. With the timer set, the morning sunrise will gradually brighten towards your own customizable "daylight" setting over the course of 15 minutes. When night rolls around, the LED will slowly dim towards your customizable "night" setting, convincingly replicating a natural sunset. (It's a seriously cool effect which we're big fans of at NEHERP!) Current Satellite LED+ Pro units feature a mix of 6500K "daylight" white and RGB-controllable diodes for total control of the color pallet and brightness levels. The Satellite Pro remote also has storm, cloud, lightning, and other special effects which can be triggered at will. Thanks to the higher PAR output, we recommend these LEDs for enclosures up to 24in tall.
Value Grow Spotlight LED
A super-bright high output light for tall bioactive vivariums
$63.98/ea
10% Off Value Grow LEDs!
$57.58/ea
$127.96/2-Pack
10% Off Value Grow LEDs!
$115.16/2-Pack
$191.94/3-Pack
10% Off Value Grow LEDs!
$172.74/3-Pack
$255.92/4-Pack
10% Off Value Grow LEDs!
$230.32/4-Pack
Note: The wire fixture option (visible in cart) is currently sold out!
PAR: 525µMol/M²S / Lumens: ~2400 (Each)
Recommended for enclosures 25-38in tall
LED Dimensions: 4.75in tall, 5in diameter
Fixture Dimensions: 9in Tall, 6in Wide
NEHERP Staff Description
Our Value Grow super high output grow light LEDs were originally selected for use in our indoor grow rooms, but their through-the-roof performance & statistics encouraged us to begin offering them on the site. We've been using Value Grow Spotlights in tests at NEHERP since 2014, and they've proven to be an incredibly high output solution for the price. In our tests, these 6000K spotlights metered over 525µMol/M²S of PAR light, and 44,500lux at 12in away. Value Grow Spotlights have optic lenses which focus the beam of light to a very tight 60° angle, in an effort to ensure plenty of light can penetrate through even the tallest enclosures. These are an appropriate choice for enclosures over 25in tall, but are too bright for us to use them for anything shorter. Longevity of these LEDs depends on allowing plenty of airflow to naturally flow through their aluminum heat sink, which is why they are bundled here with the discounted wire fixture. Institutions and custom builders looking to build these LEDs into enclosed cabinets should incorporate a forced airflow solution into the design for best results. Manufacturer rated 30W driver, 36W chipset. Each LED unit comes with a 1 year replacement guarantee. We recommend using 1234 LED units over this particular enclosure.
Important Note:
This very tall terrarium presents it's own set of lighting challenges, due to it's small footprint and very tall height. Because of these unique dimensions, a powerful and small light source is necessary. A single Value Grow Spotlight will ensure enough light can penetrate down to substrate level. Placing the LED towards the front of the enclosure is good practice, in our experience. Doing so prevents damaging plants high on the background, and ensures the plants at the bottom are in direct view of the bright light source. With any tall column-like vivarium, we recommend being careful not to use too many broad-leaf or fast growing plants near the top, to prevent shadowing of plants below.
Jungle Dawn Spotlight LED
The ultimate high-output spotlight for tall enclosures
$86.98/ea LED + Fixture
10% Off Jungle Dawn LED Spotlights!
$79.98/ea LED + Fixture
$86.98/ea LED + Fixture
10% Off Jungle Dawn LED Spotlights!
$79.98/ea LED + Fixture
$173.96/2-Pack
10% Off Jungle Dawn LED Spotlights!
$159.96/2-Pack
$260.94/3-Pack
10% Off Jungle Dawn LED Spotlights!
$239.94/3-Pack
Note: The wire fixture option (visible in cart) is currently sold out!
PAR: ~650µMol/M²S @ 12in / Lumens: 3,500 (Each)
Recommended for enclosures 28-48in tall
LED Dimensions: 5in high X 4in diameter
Fixture Dimensions: 9in Tall, 6in Wide
NEHERP Staff Description
The Jungle Dawn LED Spotlight is our highest output LED, and has a ton of features often sought after for illuminating tall (over 28in) enclosures. Very high PAR, Lumen, and CRI ratings are paired with a 6500K color temperature to provide a natural looking solution to grow flora in very tall enclosures. Unique features include diodes with 60º focused lenses, an internal cooling fan, an efficient aluminum heat sink, and a 40,000-hour rated life. This is an incredibly versatile LED, and the best-priced option for many taller enclosures. It's incredibly high output can easily over-power shorter enclosures, so it's strictly recommended for enclosures between 28-48in tall. Our specially selected compact wire light fixture allows for plenty of air flow for the built-in (silent-running) cooling fan, and is an ideal solution for this LED. We recommend using 1123 of these LED units over this particular enclosure.
Important Note:
This very tall terrarium presents it's own set of lighting challenges, due to it's small footprint and very tall height. Because of these unique dimensions, a powerful and small light source is necessary. We recommend using either a single Value Grow Spotlight or Jungle Dawn Spotlight to ensure enough light can penetrate down to substrate level. Placing the LED towards the front of the enclosure is good practice, in our experience. Doing so prevents damaging plants high on the background, and ensures the plants at the bottom are in direct view of the bright light source. With any tall column-like vivarium, we recommend being careful not to use too many broad-leaf or fast growing plants near the top, to prevent shadowing of plants below. This Jungle Dawn spotlight Option may slightly over-power this particular enclosure, unless high-light plants are used. For most builds, a single Value Grow LED may be a better bet.
Jungle Hobbies Advanced LED (Single)
The ultimate vivarium lighting solution
$385.00/ea
Preorder Special!
$385 $377.99/ea
Please allow up to 5 business days for this product to ship
PAR: ~400-500µMol/M²S @ 12in / Lumens: 7000
Fits enclosures ranging from 18-24in wide
Fixture Dimensions: 12.8in X 6.3in X 2.6in
Jungle Hobbies Advanced LED (Double)
The ultimate vivarium lighting solution
$699.99/ea
Preorder Special!
$699.99 $679.99/ea
Please allow up to 5 business days for this product to ship
PAR: ~400-500µMol/M²S @ 12in / Lumens: 14,000
Fits enclosures ranging from 36-48in wide.
Fixture Dimensions: 34.5in X 6.3in X 2.6in
NEHERP Staff Description
In our opinion, this is the best vivarium light on the market. It's got the highest PAR & Lumen specs of any linear LED fixture on the market. It's also got the most detaiLED & customizable automated scheduling effects of any light we've tested. It runs relatively cool thanks to it's unique fan and ducting system, has impossibly realistic remote-triggered effects, and the levels of customization are adjustable on even the most minute levels. We're big fans of this LED and you will be too. We recommend it for enclosures ranging from 24-48in tall, and 14-24in wide. For wider enclosures, we recommend the Jungle Hobbies Advanced Double unit.
Manufacturer Description
This light is packed with features that will satisfy the most discriminating gadget loving vivarium/aquarium hobbyist. This ultra-high end LED unit easily simulates different lighting conditions throughout the day with full control over light intensity and timing. Each of the 5 modes (Dawn, Sunrise, Day, Sunset, and Night) are individually scheduLED & fully adjustable to create a custom-tailored lighting solution for any desired condition.
Control all function of the light with the included multi-function remote. Switch between lighting modes. Interrupt the daily program and hit Day setting while you do maintenance. Program all the modes with a touch of a button. Kick on the lightning mode and turn your vivarium or aquarium into a stormy frenzy. The frequency of the lightning can be sped up or slowed down too. Have you ever wanted to simulate natural movement of clouds in your vivarium/aquarium? Press COLOR on the remote and watch the light turn down intensity, color and brighten up, dim down as the clouds roll through in front of the sun. The simulated movement speed of the clouds can also be sped up or slowed down via the remote.
Jungle Hobbies LEDs are able to be linked together. Use standard computer networking cable to link multiple units together, to ensure everything stays on the exact same schedule. One LED unit will be assigned the "master" function, and all connected LED units will simply follow it's schedule. (No need to program multiple units) Unlimited LED units can be networked together using this method. Includes terrarium mounting brackets, side mounting brackets, hanging hardware, remote control, and detailed instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question:
Do I need UVB light?
Answer:
UVB is beneficial to certain animal species, but PAR light (not UVB) is what plants & bioactive terrariums need to thrive. All of our kits produce enough PAR to grow plants in your enclosure, but only the fluorescent options which explicitly mention "UVB" (in-cart) produce UVB output. If your inhabitant does not require UVB, or you are working with a plant only terrarium, adding UVB is not necessary.
Question:
How long should the lights be on every day?
Answer:
The lighting kit should be left on for about 12 hours every day, with as much consistency as possible. This will simulate our planet's 24 hour cycle, and should help promote a healthy circadian rhythm for all the plants & inhabitants within the enclosure. For more info on the subject of circadian rhythm, check out our Setting Timers Section in Vivarium Lighting 101.
Question:
Can I dim these lights?
Answer:
The only lights we currently sell with a dimming option are from Jungle Hobbies. Everything else is strictly on and off, and can be controlled with an outlet timer.
Question:
Will these provide heat?
Answer:
Most of our lights produce very little heat. Even the options which say "medium heat" or "high heat" above are pretty cool by heat lamp standards. If you are working with an animal which requires heat, it's important to use an additional heat source.
Question:
Do the lights carry a guarantee or warranty?
Answer:
Nearly every light we carry does carry some sort of manufacturer guarantee/warranty.
Exo Terra Fixtures: 1 Year
Fluorescent Bulbs: None
Jump Start Fixtures: 1 Year
Jungle Hobbies: 1 Year
Sunblaster LEDs: 1 Year
Value Grow LEDs: 1 Year
Zoo Med Fixtures: 1 Year
* While guarantees & warranties are manufacturer-backed, we try to help 1-on-1 whenever possible! Email for assistance. Fluorescent bulbs should be replaced yearly due to typical output decline, and therefore do not have warranties we could honestly advertise!
Question:
How long will fluorescent options last before requiring replacement?
Answer:
All fluorescent lights degrade with time, and we recommend replacing them every 8-14 months to ensure there's enough PAR light being produced by the bulbs. UVB options should be replaced every 12 months or sooner depending on manufacturer recommendations.
Question:
How long will LED options last before requiring replacement?
Answer:
LEDs decline far more slowly than fluorescent bulbs do, and we typically use them until they die. A lot of things contribute to longevity of LEDs, and it's difficult to say with certainty how long an LED will last. Every LED we carry has proven to be exceptionally reliable. Everything was designed to last well beyond the warranty period though, with manufacturer ratings between 10,000 and 30,000 hours. At NEHERP our oldest LEDs have been running 5+ years for 12 hours per day. (Jungle Dawn & Value Grow)
Question:
Are they water proof?
Answer:
None of the lights we sell in our kits are water proof, water resistant, or are in any way impervious to water. Like with any electrical product, it's critical to ensure they stay completely dry at all times to prevent risk of shock and fire.
Question:
Why don't you carry "X" brand of LED
Answer:
We are approached by overseas LED suppliers nearly every week. Our minimum performance requirements are pretty high, and the overwhelming majority of generic LED brands won't cut it. In order for us to carry any brand of LED, it needs to meet the requirements listed below. If you'd like us to carry a brand of LED which meets the following requirements, please let us know. We're open to consider it!
• Excellent reliability
• Good PAR-to-Dollar ratio
• Good Lumen-to-Dollar ratio
• Appropriate Kelvin rating
• High Color Rendering Index
• Good performance in our tests
• Solid warranty and support
Please Note: We won't consider lights from any brands which have existed for less time than the warranty period they advertise. (These brands are often intended to be temporary, and will disappear and rebrand periodically!) We also won't carry any brands which rely on "unpaid and unbiased" reviews to list statistics, while offering no manufacturer-supplied data. (A major red flag, in our experience!)
Basic Lighting Terminology
Explanations below are ultra-simplified and specific to this hobby. Check Vivarium Lighting 101 for proper definitions.
Lumens (Brightness)
View In Vivarium Lighting 101
A unit of measurement to determine the overall "brightness" of a light source. Total output is measured in lumens (Lm). Brightness incident on a surface is measured in Lux. Be careful not to compare one manufacturer's "Lux" rating with another's "Lm" rating. Lumens are not an accurate indicator of how well a light source will grow plants; just how bright it'll look.
PAR / PPFD (Photosynthetically Active Radiation)
View In Vivarium Lighting 101
This data can be used to help determine how well a light will grow plants. The statistic which makes lights easiest to compare will look like a number followed by "µMol/M²S @ 12in". This tells you what the PAR/PPFD rating is at 12in away, which is industry standard for comparison. Measurements taken at different (closer/further) distances should not be directly compared to those taken at 12in, due to the Inverse Square Law's impact on light over a distance. A little distance goes a long way with lighting.
Inverse Square Law
View In Vivarium Lighting 101
This formula helps determine how light performs over a distance, and is a great way to explain why tall enclosures require drastically higher output lights than shorter ones. For example, the Inverse Square Law explains why a 36in tall enclosure requires a roughly 900% higher output light than a 12in tall enclosure would just to measure the same amount of light at the bottom. Weird, but true.
Kelvin (Color Temperature)
View In Vivarium Lighting 101
A rating which determines how a light source will represent color within an enclosure. A color temperature between 5000-6700K is ideal. A higher number will result in a terrarium illuminated by a blue/purple hue. On the other hand, a lower rating will appear yellow/orange to the eye. If you've seen a "blurple" colored terrarium on social media, you've seen someone who purchased a blue-heavy (high kelvin) aquarium light. We recommend against aquarium lights "with added blue LEDs" for this reason.
UVB Lighting
View In Vivarium Lighting 101
UVB helps some (not all) species synthesize vitamin D, while performing other fancy internal niceties for the animal. The more time goes by, the more research points to how important UVB lighting is. It's not necessary for plants.
Quick Summary:
All recommendations we make follow the same Kelvin recommendation, regardless of enclosure size. (5000-6700K) From there, we use the Inverse Square Law to determine the appropriate ratings for Lumens, PAR light, and UVB based on the enclosure's height. The rest of the calculation can be made by contrasting how wide and deep an enclosure is against the light projection specs of a light source. Each of our lighting recommendations keeps all of these basics in mind, and has helped us provide predictable lighting advice since 2010!
Please check out Vivarium Lighting 101 for much better explanations.
Percentage discounts and prices may vary slightly due to rounding. Kit discounts are not available on T5HO, Sunblaster, and Jungle Hobbies Lighting, but the prices shown on this page will always be the lowest we've got available. None of the lighting options on this page should be relied on as a primary source of heat for any animal. If an additional top-mounted heat source is used, we recommend keeping it as far as possible from any plant growth lighting. Some specifications have been provided by manufacturers, while other pieces of data come from in-house tests. Statistics marked with "~" should be considered approximate and subject to change. In-house tests at NEHERP are performed using an industry standard Apogee MQ500 meter. We've done our best to honestly post objective and conservative data for over 13 years now, but make no guarantees regarding accuracy of manufacturer or in-house data. Plant growth performance is (as always) guaranteed for spec-built terrariums, though! If you have questions on any item found on this page, please email us at support@neherpetoculture.com. We are always happy to help!