What Should I Put in the Tank for My Turtle?

Caring for a turtle can be hard work and expensive. Turtle tanks require all manner of equipment to keep these fascinating pets happy and healthy. Ensuring your turtle has the right size tank, properly equipped, is of utmost importance.

  1. Water and Land

    • Dry areas provide turtles with a basking area.

      Turtles need to be able to swim and flip over in their habitat. A minimum of six inches of water enables your turtle to be totally submerged. Turtles also need space to bask completely free of water, so place some rocks in an area of the tank to provide an elevated area.

    Filtration

    • Turtles produce a substantial amount of waste and need a filtration system in their tank to cope with their deposits. Invest in something of adequate size to filter waste effectively.

    Heat and Light

    • Keeping the tank at a regular temperature of between 68 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit ensures your turtle enjoys a comfortable environment. A submersible water heater serves this purpose. Apart from heat, exposure to ultraviolet light through an artificial light source, such as fluorescent bulbs, provides your turtle with the capacity to produce vitamin D, which prevents metabolic bone disease.