How to Set Up an Aquarium for Aquatic Turtles

Small, low-maintenance pets, like frogs, toads and turtles, are popular with people who live in apartments and specifically collect amphibians and reptiles. Frogs and turtles often require very specific setups, though. Aquatic turtles need both deep water and land for basking.

Things You'll Need

  • Aquarium
  • Plants
  • Rocks
  • Substrate
  • Pump/filter
  • Water
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Set up a half-and-half tank that consists of half land and half water. Even aquatic turtles need to be able to get out of the water for basking and resting. Use a 20-gallon fish tank so that you have adequate space for the turtles to swim and dive.

    • 2

      Set up your land section. Use rocks or a pre-made land platform. Make sure that there is a gradual incline up to the rocks so that turtles can climb up. Build the land section halfway up the side of the tank. Put substrate down on the bottom of the tank, and plants in what will be the water section for the turtles to eat and hide in.

    • 3

      Set up a pump and filter in the water part of the tank. Aquatic turtles breathe air, but water quality is important for the turtle's health.

    • 4

      Fill the water part of the tank with dechlorinated water. The water surface should reach high enough that the turtles can easily crawl out onto the land portion of the tank, but not so high that it covers the land aspect.

    • 5

      Keep your aquarium clean with consistent water changes, and keep it out of direct sunlight.