How to Take Care of Aquatic Turtles

Aquatic turtles are as easy to take care of as fish, and the children love to be able to get them out of the water. It's very relaxing to watch them and listen to the water fall like effect of the filter.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• aquarium
• aquarium gravel
• aquarium heater connected to a thermostat
• aquarium lid complete with light sockets
• aquatic turtle food
• filter

1. Housing
   There are a wide variety of tanks made of glass or plastic. Circular fishbowls should not be used, because of their size. Remember when buying a tank that young turtles will grow a-lot!! When covering the floor coarse aquarium gravel is suitable (don’t use sand it’s to abrasive). A dry area must also be provided ( floating rocks) , so that the turtles can get out of the water to bask in the sun light.

2. Heating and Lighting
   An aquarium heater connected to a thermostat is necessary to keep the water at the required temperature. The thermostat is vital to make sure the water doesn’t get to hot.
   For lighting an aquarium lid complete with light sockets is most suitable for turtles, as it allows adequate ventilation. Lighting helps keep the air temperature warm when they leave the water and to keep them from suffering a vitamin D deficiency.

3. Water
   Tap water is suitable for most aquatic turtles. The water should be about the same temperature as will eventually be required (75-85 F). The depth of the water should be at least 6 in. so the turtles have plenty of room to swim. They also need calcium in there water. You can buy calcium blocks for aquatic turtles at most local pet stores.

4. Tank Cleanliness
   Good hygiene is important, because the dirty water can cause human infections, as well as endangering the turtle’s health. The tank will need to be cleaned a-lot if there is no filter in the tank. The best option in many cases is an internal power filter. The tank and filter should still be cleaned on a regular base depending on the number of turtles and type of food feed.

5. Feeding
   Incorrect feeding is a major cause of death in young turtles. You can buy aquatic turtle food for baby and adult turtles at most pet stores. Young turtles when first obtained may be reluctant to eat. Most can be tempted immediately by live food, such as small tubifex worms that are available at many aquarist shops.

6. Exercise
   Keeping your turtle constantly in its tank can deprive it of needed exercise, and their muscles suffer as a result. Regularly letting your turtles walk outside their tank is recommended, but be sure to supervise them for safety.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you get baby tutle food for the very young turtles. This makes sure the food is small enough for the turtle to eat.
• Dont for get that turtles like other reptiles can carry germs. Always wash your hands after playing and/or careing for your turtles.

[writermc]

on 1/17/2009 Let me know what you think of my article, by posting a comment. Thanks.