How to set up a Red Eared Slider Turtle Tank

This article will explain how to set up an adequate tank for a red eared slider turtle, which are aquatic turtles.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Aquarium
• Canister filter
• Heat light
• UVB light
• Resting area

1. It is important to get the largest tank possible for your turtle. Red eared sliders can get up to 10-12 inches in diameter. A good rule of thumb is to have 10 gallons of tank for every inch in diameter of your turtle. For example, if you have a 7 inch turtle you will need a 70 gallon tank.

2. Install a good, powerful canister filter in your tank. Turtles dirty the water quickly, so it is best to invest in a good filter to start with. Follow the installation instructions that are included with your filter.

3. It is critical that your turtle has a sturdy place to get completely out of the water to bask. Although commercial basking areas are available for younger turtles, it is difficult to find products that are adequate for older turtles. My recommendation is to make a stand using PVC pipe and tile. There are many excellent resources available for free on the internet that illustrate how to make a variety of basking areas.

4. Turtles need proper lighting for their health and to prevent shell diseases. You will need a UVB light and a basking light for your turtle. It is important to replace the UVB light as suggested by the manufacturer as they lose efficiency with time.

Tips & Warnings

• Depending on the temperature where you tank is kept, you may need to put a water heater in your tank as well. If you do use a water heater it is important to use on that is NOT made of glass.
• If you decide to put rocks on the bottom of your tank make sure you use rocks that cannot fit into your turtle's mouth. Do not use gravel.
• There are many resources available on the internet that can provide you with specific information, such as message boards.
• Setting up an adequate turtle habitat can be expensive as these turtles do get large! Be prepared!