How to Create a Turtle Aquarium Setup

Prior to setting up an aquarium, make sure your turtle is aquatic and not semi-aquatic. Aquatic turtles include red-eared sliders, Mississippi muds, big headed chickens and spiny soft shells. Before you commit to owning a turtle, you should realize that the most important aspect of maintaining a healthy turtle aquarium is cleaning. A turtle tank will require cleaning three to four times more often than a fish tank.

Things You'll Need

  • Housing (i.e. tank, pool)
  • Filter system
  • Heating
  • Decorations to provide a hiding spot
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Instructions

  1. Setting up the perfect home.

    • 1

      Housing:
      When it comes to the size of the aquarium, the rule of thumb is a minimum of twenty gallons with an additional ten for each additional turtle. Glass or Plexiglas aquariums work the best because they are easy to fit into your living space and will allow you to enjoy watching your turtle swim. However, these aquariums can be expensive.
      A child's wading pool is an inexpensive alternative but most people do not have the type of living area that would accommodate this large of a set-up. Plus, this option won't allow you to observe your turtle swimming about.

    • 2

      Filter System
      Canister filters are the most expensive but they are also very effective at keeping your turtle's home clean and healthy. They feature inflow and outflow tubes and are mounted on the side of the tank.
      Sponge filters are generally in the medium price range. They sit in the tank and a pump draws the water through sponge filters. The drawback with these filters is if the pump is too small for the size of the tank than it may not adequately suck the water through. The filters will also need to be changed frequently.
      Power filters are in the same price range as sponge filters but are much more effective. In order for these filters to work properly, the water must be kept at the appropriate level.
      Under-gravel filters are the least expensive but are potentially dangerous. Since gravel isn't recommended for use in turtle tanks these shouldn't be considered. Turtles can swallow small pieces of gravel. This could lead to the death of your pet.

    • 3

      Heaters
      Most tanks will require some sort of heating but this depends on the individual type of turtle. Ask a pet store employee which heating device is recommended for use with your tank and filter set-up.

    • 4

      Decorations
      A happy turtle needs a place to hide. However, keep in mind that turtles can be destructive and may look at aquatic grasses as a snack bar. Plastic plants are an ideal alternative.
      If you want to cover the bottom of your tank, use large flat stones. Make sure they are too big for your pet to swallow.