I have a question. I am purchasing a 500w titanium heater for Pistachio's 60 gallon pre-molded pond. She is a 6-7" diameter RES. We live in Tucson, Arizona (the Sonoran desert). Even though it's a desert, it can get down below 32 degrees for a couple of hours by early morning in February. Of course, it always gets back up to the high 40's to high 50's (or higher) in the daytime. I'm only referring to the coldest temperatures in Winter. Summer's not a problem. Additionally, the sun shines every single day. Does anyone have any concerns about this setup? Can this tube heater burn her if it's sitting on the bottom of her pond and she lays against it?
Also, I am curious if I need to buy a UVA/UVB light for her. Does she need a heating lamp for basking during the winter if her water is warm? I have been told that I need to purchase a light with a ceramic base. As I mentioned, the sun shines in Tucson almost every single day.
Thanks for your help,
Roycpat