UVB lighting is close to mandatory for this species — not just 'recommended'
As a strongly diurnal desert basker, a bearded dragon's D3 synthesis and calcium metabolism depend heavily on strong UVB exposure. A linear T5 HO tube at 10.0 or 12% output, run the length of the basking area with no glass or plastic barrier in the way, is the current standard. UV output degrades well before the bulb stops producing visible light, so replacement on a schedule (roughly every 6–12 months) matters even if the bulb still looks fine.
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Unlike many popular pet reptiles, bearded dragons are fully day-active baskers native to the arid interior of Australia.
The dark, puffed-out throat that gives this species its name can signal several different things: feeling threatened, asserting dominance over another dragon, stress from handling, or simple excitement around feeding time.
The slow, circular wave of a front leg is a bearded dragon's way of signalling submission or acknowledgement — often seen when a smaller or younger dragon is near a larger one, or simply as a response to seeing another dragon (including a reflection).
A fast, sharp head bob is typically a dominance display, most often from males, sometimes directed at a reflection or another dragon.
Adult bearded dragons often slow down, eat less, and sleep more for weeks to a couple of months, typically in the cooler months, even in a climate-controlled indoor enclosure.
Darkening — especially on the beard and belly — helps absorb more heat during basking and can also signal stress or agitation.