Red Eared Slider Tank
This is one of the most important aspect on how to make your turtle pet thrive happily. As you consider the possibility of purchasing the exotic red eared slider turtle as a pet, there are a few things you need to be aware of. Sliders are small when you purchase them from the pet store, but they can grow to be a foot in length which means they need a larger tank than the average turtle. This is why they are sold young because pet stores do not have space to accommodate several large turtles. When it comes to a red eared slider tank, critical aspects to be aware of are the size, cleanliness and warmth.
First of all, understand the commitment that comes with owning a slider. They live for a long time, up to 30 years with proper care, so if you want a long-term pet, this is the perfect option for you. When selecting a tank size, be aware that red eared sliders require a lot of space, especially because they grow to be so large. For every inch your turtle is long, you should provide at least six gallons of water. The most cost-effective way to go about accommodating your turtle is to purchase the size recommended for an adult at the very beginning. The cost and hassle of upgrading tanks simply is not the best way.
The tank can be equipped with filters to make water replacement a less-often occurrence. Changing the water can be a hassle, so extending the time between each change is a great benefit to you. A mechanical filter is commonly seen in an average fish tank and usually hangs on the back of the tank. Biological filters act like internal sponges. Both are great options and can be used individually or together.
Sliders are exotic animals that require warm temperatures to thrive. A tank should hold water kept at 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. To heat the water, a submersed heater is a good piece of equipment. To protect the turtle from harsh exposure to the heat, be sure to equip a heater guard as well. A basking area with a heat lamp is needed so your slider can spend time outside the water. This should be a flat area maintained at a temperature of 90-95 degrees Fahrenheit, provided by a 50-150 watt incandescent light bulb. Allowing your turtle some daily time in natural sunlight will be beneficial to his health as well. With these tips, you can house your slider properly and give him a long, healthy life.
