How to Assemble a Turtle Tank

Turtles need a place to bask in the tank.

Turtles are quiet, intriguing pets for children of all ages. While it may seem easy enough to put some water in a tank and give the turtle a rock to bask on, turtle care is much more involved that that. Improper tank maintenance can lead to serious health issues for your turtle and anyone handling him. Part of keeping everyone healthy is setting up the turtle habitat properly in the first place.

Instructions

1. Choose a tank that is large enough for your turtle and won't be crowded if you have more than one. A 25-gallon tank is a good start for one turtle, but consider a 50-gallon tank if you plan on having two or three and don't want to buy another tank later.

2. Add water to the tank that is at least as deep as the turtle is long. According to PetTurtleCareGuide.com, this helps the turtle to get in and out of the water more easily.

3. Place large rocks or floating turtle platforms in the tank. Strategically placing stationary rocks on the ends allows the turtle plenty of space to swim.

4. Install a water heater and filter to keep the water moving, clean and the ideal temperature for your turtle. Check your local pet store for filter-and-waterfall or filter-and-heater combinations that reduce the space these accessories utilize.

5. Place a waterproof thermometer in the water. Turtles need the water to remain at 75 degrees. Adjust your heater as necessary to keep the ideal temperature for your turtle.

6. Place a lamp at the top of the tank. Many lamps clamp to the top of the tank, while others straddle the width. You may choose between a heat, UV or fluorescent lamp to provide your turtle with the white light needed to remain healthy. Situating the lamp directly over a basking rock is ideal.

Tips & Warnings

• Give your turtle regular daylight hours, turning the light off at a regular time. Turtles need at least 10 to 12 hours of UV light daily.

• Clean your turtle tank regularly by placing your turtle in a secondary holding tank, while you siphon dirty water out and clean any rocks or accessories in the tank.

• Keep lamps 12 to 15 inches away from the turtle to prevent injury. Make sure light sources don't directly hit the turtle to provide the necessary UV light. Glass prevents UV rays.

References

• Pet Turtle Care Guide: Turtle Tank Setup
• Drs. Foster Smith: UB Lighting Needs