Browse Instructions
How To House an Aquatic Turtle
Posted By: Stacyh;
Category: Pets;
December 2, 2008
Author StacyH;
There will be some specific variations necessary depending on the breed of turtle, but here are the basic things you will need to be prepared to provide for a pet aquatic turtle.
1
Provide a tank large enough for the turtle to have adequate swimming area and a basking area.
An aquatic turtle will need enough water to fully submerge and swim. The basking area needs to be large enough for the turtle to leave the water completely. Remember to account for the turtle's growth.
An aquatic turtle will need enough water to fully submerge and swim. The basking area needs to be large enough for the turtle to leave the water completely. Remember to account for the turtle's growth.
2
Provide a heat light source and a UV light source. There are combo hoods for reptiles and amphibians that have both UV bulbs and heat bulbs. For a smaller habitat and turtle, you may be able to use a UVB or full spectrum bulb in a lamp a few inches above the basking area. Turtles require UV light for proper metabolism.
3
You will need a filter that is larger than normally recommended for the size tank you are using. A 20 gallon tank for an aquatic turtle should have a 50 to 60 gallon filter. This is because turtles are much messier than fish.
4
Provide driftwood or flat clean rocks or aquatic plants to make the turtle feel more secure and to make the habitat more attractive. It is best not to use substrate on the bottom of the tank because it will get messy and because the turtle may swallow some.
5
Provide an underwater heater and use a thermometer to maintain the proper temperature. The water should be about 78 degrees and the basking area should be several degrees warmer.
6
Use Reptoguard to kill bacteria in the water and provide mineral for a healthy environment. Reptoguard can help kill salmonella.
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