Animal Research Lab Lighting

Kenall Specializes in Red Vivarium Lighting

Red LED lighting is ideal for animal research laboratories. This specific spectrum of light, 630nm, maintains sleep cycles for nocturnal animals such as mice and rats. Research facilities commonly use rodents for study, and therefore must address the issue of proper lighting for these nocturnal animals. Studies indicate that the timing and duration of light and dark cycles (called a photoperiod) influences the body weight and food intake of laboratory animals. It also can induce a shift in the circadian rhythm of blood pressure, heart rate and activity.

Since red light is invisible to rodents (and some other research animals), it is used at times when white light would disrupt their activity cycles.

Narrow Spectrum Lighting

Why Use Red LED Over White LED

Restricting the use of white light in vivariums allows research technicians to continue work, while at the same time preserving the animals’ natural circadian rhythm. This reduces stress and allows the animals to behave more naturally, which ultimately produces more reliable research results. The use of controlled dimming that mimics dawn to dusk, in addition to red vivarium lights, is preferable to researchers interested in changes in animal behavior when animals are primarily active at night.

Animal Research Lab Lighting Requirements:

• 630-635 nm red LED vivarium light for nocturnal animals
• IP65 Certified; Cleanroom Class 100
• Adjustable light levels to prevent eye damage in animals
• Sealed light fixtures rated BSL-3 and -4
• Lighting controls needed to automate timing of white and red LED light

Competitive Edge - Red Vivarium Lighting