Turtles & Diatomaceous Earth

Turtles need to be protected from ants.

Turtles can make fine pets, but you must take steps to protect these slow-moving animals. One way is to use diatomaceous earth, which is a chalky powder also known as diatomite.

Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is made up of the fossilized remains of single-celled plants and is often used as a pesticide.

Ants

Fire ants and army ants are known predators of turtle hatchlings and eggs. They will kill and eat both of them.

Killing Ants

Diatomaceous earth is abrasive and highly absorbent. This allows it to enter an ant's body and cause it to dehydrate and die.

Barrier

Protect the turtle's enclosure from ants by placing a ring of diatomaceous about 15cm wide around the enclosure. If the area gets wet, such as after a rainstorm, the diatomaceous earth must be replaced.

Keep it Outside

Diatomaceous earth can cause problems for turtles if they inhale it or it gets in their eyes, so keep the ring outside the turtle's enclosure.

References

• Pet Care Tips: Some of the Predators to Watch and Prepare For
• Tortoise Trust: A Secure Habitat
• Mongabay: Diatomaceous Earth (Diatomite)