What do you need to keep aquatic turtles?

1. Ideal aquaterrarium.

The main thing you need to keep an aquatic turtle is a suitable aquaterrarium. The more spacious it is, the better. There is an easy way to calculate length and width. Measure the length of the shell of the largest turtle. Multiplying it by 5 will give you the minimum length of the aquaterrarium. Half of this value is the recommended width. If there are several turtles, 10-20% of the area should be added to each.

2. Reliable foundation.

Install the aquaterrarium on a substrate. It’s like the foundation for a house. The substrate will smooth out irregularities and reduce the point load on the glass. The terrarium on it is denser and more reliable. 

3. The same depth.

How much water should be poured into the aquarium? The depth should be twice the length of the shell of the largest turtle.

4. Wonder Island!

Most aquatic turtles periodically get out on land. There they rest, bask and nest. Therefore, in the aquaterrarium, there must be an island. Preferably, flat or with gentle edges – so that the turtle is easy to climb on it. If the path to the islet lies through rocks or tree branches, make sure that they hold tightly and do not slip off.

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5. What about the palm tree?

There must be a palm tree on the miracle island! Well, or some plant instead of it. In fact, this is not necessary: ​​the turtle does not care if the plant is there or not. But if you really want to plant something on an island, choose a hardy variety and make sure it’s safe for your pets. Turtles have a great appetite and, rest assured, they will try to eat your “palm”. To prevent this from happening, it can be protected with stones. 

6. Bright sun.

It is difficult to provide the sun in an apartment, but special llamas are just that. Stock up on sources of heat and light and install them above the island. Just don’t get too close or the turtle will get burned. The optimal distance between the land and the lamps: 20-30 cm. 

7. Powerful filter.

Cleanliness is the key to health. Especially in an aquaterrarium, because turtles have a very fast metabolism! If the water and islet are not cleaned regularly, waste products and leftover food will create an ideal environment for the spread of disease-causing bacteria. Regularly clean the terrarium and be sure to install a special powerful filter in the water: it will help maintain cleanliness. 

8. Balanced diet.

Depending on the species and age, turtles prefer plant or animal food. Each pet has its own dietary features, and the owner should carefully study this issue. In pet stores, choose only those foods that are suitable for the type and age of your turtle. Be sure to check the expiration date and integrity of the packaging. Ready-made foods form the basis of the diet, and you can also introduce additional products into it. Which ones and in what proportions – individually for each species. A large selection of food for all types of turtles is offered by Tetra. Explore the range to get an idea of ​​the feeds available on the market. 

9. The main thing is the measure!

Turtles almost never eat more than they need. But uneaten food in a warm and humid microclimate deteriorates very quickly, attracts insects, and spoils the water. 

Everyone wants their pet to grow up healthy and strong, but the path to this lies not through an excess of food, but through moderation. If young turtles (up to 2-3 years old) are fed daily, then it is enough for an adult to feed 2-3 times a week. Do not need anymore! Give the turtle as much food as it will eat in half an hour. Remove all leftovers.

10. Love!

Love your pet! This is by far the most important point. If you sincerely care about your charges, you will always develop for them: study their needs, consult with experts, analyze conditions of detention and correct errors in a timely manner. And this is the most important thing!