INDOOR TURTLE
ENVIRONMENT
HATCHLING TANK
Hatchlings should be reared in a tank of approximately 60x30x30cm and for a pair this will
probably only be adequate for about six months.
Do not keep hatchlings in a fish bowl ... it is not
adequate.
ADULT TANK
A pair of 15-25cm turtles need a minimum 120x60x60cm tank.
WATER DEPTH
There is no maximum water depth but the minimum is twice the turtle shell length, however,
do not have the water level or floating island too close to the top of the tank as turtles
are good climbers and your pet could climb out. A drop of 50cm or more on to a hard
surface could kill your turtle.
WATER TEMPERATURE
I recommended keeping the water temperature of your tanks at 26oC to avoid your
Turtle refusing to eat. Once water temperatures drop below 15oC Turtles will
stop eating and can stave to death as these temperatures are too high for successful
hibernating, and too low for digesting food successfully. Water temperature can be
maintained by using a standard aquarium heater (inserted inside a heater guard. These
prevent your Turtle from possibly breaking the heater). Your local pet shop will advise
what size heater you'll require for the volume of water your Turtle lives in.
WATER QUALITY
It is not essential to age your water but a 50% water change every day or two will assist
in maintaining the water quality. Your turtle tank should be thoroughly cleaned every
week. Poor water quality leads to disease. Be aware that every gram of solid food results
in 4 to 5 grams of urine being excreted.
WATER FILTRATION
Frequent water changes can be avoided with the use of a quality power filter but regular
cleaning will still need to be maintained. The biggest cause of death with pet Turtles
is ammonia poisoning. Your tank water can look clean but the ammonia levels due to
their urine can be off the scale and Turtles once poisoned can
die within hours.
Click here for Pond Ideas for New Zealand Conditions
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