2) You then need a large filter of some sort; Power, canister, wet/dry, sponge, or submersible filter. I personally recommend power or canister filters, they seem to do the best job. Wet/dry filters are extremely expensive, so I have not used them before. You need a filter at least three times the size that you would need to filter the tank full of fish, turtles produce far more waste than fish, they are very messy. Heres the Aqua clear fiter by RcHagen.
3) You also need a submersible heater of some kind. I use an Ebo Jager, and they are great. You want to keep the temp at 78-85 degrees. Heres a picture of the heater I use, my Ebo Jager cost $14.00 at the Pet Warehouse.
4) An important thing for a turtles health, is food. Some live foods, greens, and some commercial turtle food are some good things to use. For more information on turtle feeding, go to Reslider Swamp(on links page). Heres a picture of my favorite Aquatic turtle food, Tetra Reptomin.
5) Some type of Full Spectrum, flourescent lighting. For more info on lighting, visit my lighting page. I use Reptisun 5.0%, it is relatively expensive ($23 at Pet Warehouse), and they need to be replaced every year or so. Heres a picture.
*6) One product that many turtle keepers love is the Python no spill Clean&Fill system. It is not necessary, but a real help. It is also at the Pet Warehouse.
7) Last but not least, A TURTLE of some sort. I love Red Eared Sliders, they're pretty and fun. Map turtles are great, and if your looking for a smaller turtle, check into musk or mud turtles. Any sub-species of slider are beautiful. Heres a turtle picture.
Please be willing to buy the necessary supplies to set up your turtle correctly. It's an expensive hobby, but well worth it.
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© 1998
Created byDerek Hall
