When having an aquatic turtle there are several things to keep in mind to ensure proper health and promote natural behavior.
[ad#Google Adsense]
1. Proper tank setup
2. Proper Uv exposure
3. Proper Basking site
4. Proper water temperature
5. Proper Filtration
6. Proper food
Tank set-up: Depending on the species of aquatic turtle that you have your tank could vary slightly. Your tank should be appropriately sized for the species of turtle you are going to house whether it is going to be a 10 gallon for hatchlings or a 55 gallon for up to 2 medium sized turtles. Your tank should be filled halfway to accommodate for the percentage of time spent in the water. There should also be an area wear the turtle can retreat out of the water and regulate there body temperature witch is referred to as (Basking).
Uv exposure: Most reptiles need to have a relatively high Uv exposure. Uv is the natural vitamin that the sun gives off. This ensures that the turtle will receive proper Vitamin exposure and grow properly. Recommended Uv should be the heist rated available. You can pick up relatively high rated UV bulbs at most pet stores.
Basking Site: A basking site s an area of land were a turtle can reach were it can retreat from the water and regulate there body temperature. Basking is very important. This will ensure that the turtle regulating there body correctly to help fight health issues, stimulate activity. And feed.
Water Temperature: Different turtles need different water temperatures so make sure you do your research. The majority of aquatic turtles require temperatures in the mid 70’s and upper 80’s.
Filtration: Filtration is one of the most important things to keep in mind when dealing with aquatic turtles. Since turtles spend about 95%of there time in the water as well as Deficating, Urinating, and eating all in the same place. It needs to be super clean otherwise it could potentially hurt your turtle and you.
Food: different turtles eat different thing. The majority of turtles are omnivores witch means they will eat both plant matter and protein. There are a number of pellet turtle foods on the market that all pretty much do the same thing. You will also want to offer some frozen foods into there diet.
1) Krill
2) Beef heart
3) Silversides
4) Frozen turtle treats
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
A very well written article full of turtle info!!