All aquatic turtles need sunlight or a substitution for sunlight to promote growth and prevent illnesses.
There are many species of aquatic turtles (map, musk, snapping, painted and red-eared sliders). The perfect turtle tank meets the needs of the unique species you choose, so conduct research on the turtle you want. It is essential to re-create the turtle's natural environment. A basic setup costs around $100 to $300.
Light
In their natural habitats, turtles receive sunlight, which aids in digestion, the proper utilization of calcium and the curing of some skin problems. Pet turtles need access to this same unfiltered UVA/UVB light to prevent illnesses such as metabolic bone disease. One of the most essential items in your turtle tank will be the UVB light. Turtles are also cold-blooded, meaning their body temperature cannot go below a certain level or they will die. It is important to provide your turtle with a heat lamp. Purchase either an incandescent lamp for a heat source or use a regular household light bulb. Or, simplify the process by purchasing a mercury vapor bulb, which acts as a heat lamp and provides the essential UV rays your turtle needs. Most aquatic turtles need their aquarium temperature maintained at between 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
Filter
A good filter is important because your aquatic turtle will be eating in the same water in which it lives and defecates. Prevent sickness by providing clean water with a filter and weekly water changes. There are many filters currently on the market, including submerged filters and canister filters. Submerged filters are quieter and work best for tanks with low water levels. A canister system works best for larger turtles or tanks with more than one turtle.
Tank Size
Your turtle's tank must be large enough for deep swimming, basking and resting in shallow water. A good turtle tank can be a glass aquarium no less than 20 gallons, and ideally 40 gallons. Lengthwise, the tank should be four times the turtle's length. It should have a width of two times the turtle's length and a height two times the turtle's length. For each additional turtle, increase the tank's dimensions by 50 percent. Prevent escape by adding a screen lid. Create a resting place for the turtle with an underwater shelf. There are many options for the basking or land area, such as replicating the turtle's natural environment by using rocks or slate (make sure there are no sharp edges) or purchasing an artificial basking island at a pet store.
Decorations
This is the part of designing the turtle tank where you can be as creative as you want. Decorate the tank with a multitude of items, including gravel for the flooring, rocks and shells, plants (real and artificial) and commercial decorations. Sterilize decorations found outside before putting them in your turtle's home, and do not decorate with anything sharp. Plants, which create a natural feel, can be one of the best additions to your tank. Real plants need to be trimmed and cut back, and artificial plants will need to be cleaned every week. If you use real plants, make sure they are not toxic to your specific species. Live plants are often eaten quickly by turtles. One safe plant that turtles do not like to eat is the sword plant because of its bitter taste. Clean decorations weekly.
