The housing or habitat of your turtle is a crucial requirement for your pet. There are two main types of housing: indoor, also known as a turtle aquarium, and outdoor housing, which is usually a garden pond. While the indoor enclosure shares similarities with a fish aquarium, there are important differences to keep in mind, especially for novice turtle keepers.
One of the most significant differences is water level containment. Fish are aquatic creatures that can survive in water alone, while turtles need both land and water. For this reason, fish tanks are filled entirely with water, while turtle tanks are only filled halfway. Each turtle species requires a specific amount of water according to its size, and this amount must be carefully calculated and maintained. The water level should be high enough for the turtle to swim, but it should also have shallow areas for the turtle to stand, as well as a rock or log to climb out and bask in the sun.
When purchasing a turtle aquarium, consider the size your turtle will grow into as an adult. Turtles can grow up to three or four times their infant length as they mature. Therefore, the ideal aquarium size for your pet is three to four times the length or size of the largest turtle. The tank width should be twice as large, and the height should ideally be 1.5 to two times its length. Additionally, choose a tank that is eight to 12 inches higher than the turtle's highest reach to prevent it from climbing out.
When buying accessories for your turtle tank, prioritize your pet's welfare and safety. Never place rough stones in the aquarium, as they may harm your pet. Instead, choose smooth stones, or sterilize roadside stones before adding them to the tank. Clean all store-bought accessories every week to ten days. To ensure regular cleaning, take out and disinfect accessories when you change your tank water.
Create an elevated area for your turtle to bask by piling smooth rocks or aquarium gravel on one side of the tank. You can also use Styrofoam(TM) or floating cork to create a bridge or plastic raft for your pet to climb on. The other side of the tank should be reserved for swimming holes.
A proper filtration system is essential to maintaining the cleanliness and sanitation of the tank and ensuring your pet's health. It is recommended to use a submersible filtration system that uses foam for filtering. Rinse the foam with cool, clean water every week.
Purchasing and setting up the turtle's aquarium are critical tasks for beginner turtle keepers. Make sure you are ready to provide proper housing before acquiring a pet turtle. Remember that the best habitats for turtles mimic their natural habitat conditions, providing space, soil, plants, food, water, and temperature control for a long and healthy life.