What Type of Water Should I Use in the Tank of My Red Eared Slider Turtle?

Red-eared sliders are a type of semi-aquatic North American turtle. These animals have a distinctive red mark and a tendency to quickly slide off logs and rocks when startled, which gives them their name. Red-eared sliders need water in their tanks to survive. Poor quality water increases the risk of health problems and can kill some turtles. The right water type and maintenance can help keep your turtle happy and healthy.

  1. Tap Water

    • These turtles survive well in basic tap water, as long as that tap water is free of chlorine and heavy metal contamination. Most municipal water is chlorinated for public health reasons, and must be filtered and treated before it's safe for turtles to swim in. Water treated only with chlorine becomes safe if allowed to stand uncovered overnight, according to First Tank Guide. However, most municipal water also contains chloramine, which does not dissipate this way. Use a filtration system designed to remove chloramine or a decholorinating chemical to render this tap water safe. Fill turtle tanks only with cold tap water, since hot water can pick up lead and other contaminants from the pipes.

    Bottled Water

    • When dechlorinators or unchlorinated tap water are unavailable, fill the aquatic part of a red-eared slider enclosure with bottled water. Use bottled drinking water or spring water, not distilled water, which lacks important minerals the turtle needs to function. If purchased in bulk, clean bottled water for turtles can be relatively inexpensive. Extend the life of bottled water in enclosures by cleaning the water daily and using a highly efficient filtration system.

    Maintenance

    • Red-eared sliders can live in enclosures without extra water filtration systems, but these tanks require daily maintenance. Remove all food and other debris from the water at least once per day. Siphon out 25 percent of the tank water each week and replace it with fresh water to keep the turtle healthy. Alternatives to regular water changes include under gravel and canister filters, similar to those used in fish tanks. These filters remove debris and reduce bacteria populations automatically, reducing the need for constant maintenance. Filtration systems do require occasional cleaning and replacement of the filter media.

    Warning

    • Dirty or poor quality water weakens turtles and predisposes them to a number of diseases, including eye infections, blood poisoning, ear infections and digestive problems. Sick turtles may lose their ability to swim properly and can even drown. Water contaminants, such as heavy metals, can slowly poison turtles, while chlorine residue can irritate their eyes, skin, mouth and throat. This irritation provides a pathway for germs to enter the body, increasing the risk of illness.