How to Build a Terrarium for Turtles

Turtle terrariums are a simulation of our Earth. These simple turtle habitats will serve as a good learning process for small children. It serves as a beautiful in-home garden and decorative piece, too. Never use plastic plants in the terrarium. Use chlorine-free water. If you are placing a terrarium in the center of your room, plant colorful flowering plants in the middle surrounded by smaller plants. Do not forget to leave dry area for the turtle to rest.

Things You'll Need

Large glass tank
Charcoal
Potting soil
3 to 4 inch Aquarium stones
Power filter
UV light
Super glue
Basking platforms
Aquarium dividers
Live aquatic plants

Instructions

- 1
  Check how large your turtle will grow. Buy a glass aquarium that is a suitable size. Turtles grow quickly. Each turtle species grows to a different size.
- 2
  Replace with a larger tank if your turtle overgrows the tank. The length and width of the glass tank should be 4 to 5 times bigger than the turtle.
- 3
  Pour a 1-inch layer of charcoal. Place ½-inch layer of potting soil on top of it. Buy 3-to-4-inch aquarium stones. Place them around the glass tank. Pour in 1 gallon of water. Leave the aquarium stones half-immersed in the water. Add or remove water depending on the immersion level of the stones.
- 4
  Attach a power filter to the tank using the suction cup. It will keep the tank safe from the turtle waste.
- 5
  Install a UV light. Glue the UV light on the top or roof of the glass tank using super glue. Let the glue dry for 5 minutes. Turtles love sunlight. When they are kept indoors, proper UV lights are necessary to keep them warm and safe.
- 6
  Create a dry area in the aquarium using basking platforms or aquarium dividers. Turtles should be able to come to the dry area easily.
- 7
  Decorate the terrarium with live plants, stones and other items. Turtles will eat the plants. Select plants which survive in water.