How to Make a Turtle Display Tank

Turtles have simple housing requirements, but you can make a display tank that is both healthy for the turtles and pleasing to the eye. Small turtles grow quickly, so it's best to start with a tank large enough to hold the turtle at its adult size. Gravel and rocks on the bottom make the tanks more difficult to clean, so most turtle tanks have a bare bottom. They are also messy eaters, so remove the turtle from the tank and feed it in a separate container in order to keep the tank tidy.

Instructions

    • 1

      Select a tank appropriate to the size of your turtle. Turtles require a lot of swimming space, but not a lot of depth. Pick a tank that is long and wide rather than tall and narrow.

    • 2

      Select a filter appropriate for the volume of water in your tank. Pick a filter stronger than you think you will need. Canister filters are the best choice for turtle tanks. In-tank filters do not have enough filtration power to compensate for the amount of waste turtles produce. Hang-on filters must be placed at water level, which is not an option in most turtle tanks.

    • 3

      Choose lighting and a heat source for your tank. Turtles require UVB lighting for proper bone and shell development. The temperature requirements vary by the species of turtle, but a heat lamp is the best option. Heat-lamp bulbs are available that emit both heat and UVB light.

    • 4

      Stack smooth rocks or pieces of wood to provide a spot under the light and heat where the turtles can get completely out of the water to bask. Make sure the area is dry to avoid fungal infections.