How to Create an Aquatic Turtle Habitat

Turtles can be fun pets, but just like dogs and cats, turtles need proper care and nutrition. Elements you would find in a turtle's natural environment such as rocks, sand and water should be incorporated into the habitat you create for your turtle at your home. In addition, a turtle can not go without proper heat, light and nutrition. Create the perfect habitat before you bring your new turtle home so you have a safe place to keep your pet.

Things You'll Need

  • Large 20- to 30-gallon tank
  • Water
  • Rock or log
  • Fine sand, gravel or fluorite
  • Dome light
  • UVA and UVB lights
  • Heat emitter cover
  • Water thermometer
  • Hygrometer
  • Gloves
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Instructions

  1. Setting up the Aquarium

    • 1

      Place a 20- to 30-gallon long aquarium on a sturdy setting such as a table or counter. The aquarium will fit one to two turtles. For each additional turtle you will need 10 more gallons of space.

    • 2

      Spread a substrate across the floor of the tank. A substrate can be anything from small rocks to gravel to sand. Fluorite is also a popular substrate because it has a natural look and is easy to maintain. Some aquatic turtles need more humidity than others. Ask your veterinarian if your turtle requires more humidity. If so, you may need to use damp mulch, soil or moss as the substrate. You can also keep a hygrometer on hand to measure humidity levels.

    • 3

      Determine which part of the tank will be used for land and which will be used for water. At least 50 to 75 percent of the tank should be used for the water area. The land portion of the tank should be above water and kept dry, so the turtle has an area to sit or bask. This can be accomplished by placing a large rock or log in a corner of the tank. If the dry area is too steep for the turtle to climb onto, pile up a series of rocks that lead up to the dry area. You can also add gravel or soil to the dry area if you choose.

    • 4

      Landscape the tank by placing real or fake plants, logs and driftwood throughout the tank. While landscaping is not a necessity in an aquatic turtle habitat, it can help a turtle to feel safe due to the natural look.

    • 5

      Place UVA and UVB bulbs in the appropriate lighting outlets on the tank. This type of light aids in activity, nutrition and breeding. Heat lamps should also be placed in the land area to ensure turtles receive proper levels of vitamin D. It's also beneficial to put these lights on a timer to provide a constant sequence of approximately 10 to 12 hours of light and 10 to 12 hours of dark.

    • 6

      Fill the tank with water until the water reaches a few inches below the dry area you have already set up. Then place a water thermometer in the water. The water temperature should be approximately 78 degrees Fahrenheit.

    • 7

      Place your turtle in it's new habitat while wearing gloves.

    • 8

      Cover the tank with a heat-proof metal screen that is used as a heat emitter. Be sure to monitor water temperatures and your filtration system. Water typically needs to be changed every two weeks. In addition, make sure you routinely care for your pet with proper nutrition based upon what your veterinarian recommends.