Mud Turtle Care For Beginners Infographic

Brief on How to Take Care of Mud Turtles:

• Housing: 50 – 100 gallon tank, basking dock, UV light, heating lamp, water filter, tank heater
• Basking Temperature: 85 – 92°F
• Water Temperature: 74 – 78°F
• Air Temperature: 78 – 82°F
• Food Habit: Fish, shrimp, snail, worm, insect, lettuce, green leaf, apple, pellets, supplements

Mud Turtle Tank Size:

• A 40-gallon aquarium is recommended for a single mud turtle, with a 50 – 100 gallon if the turtle will be getting larger. A minimum space of about 20-gallon is suggested.

Basking Dock:

• Professionals build dock-like, clear habitats for basking preferences. It is important to set up a strong platform and a method to help the turtle in and out of the water surface.

Tank Heater:

• A tank heater can be essential to warm the water and make it suitable for the turtle’s living conditions.

Water Filter:

• It’s important to avoid bacterial growth and exposure to infectious diseases. A professional filter ensures that the turtle’s aquatic environment is clean and safe.

Lighting:

• Reptile bulbs are generally used to provide warmth to the mud turtle. Lighting should be on a timer to simulate day and night cycles.

What Should I Put in My Mud Turtle Tank?

• The infographic suggests a combination of a substrate, decoration, and a basking dock.

Mud Turtle Water Temperature:

• The suitable water temperature for mud turtles ranges between 74 – 78 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. The basking temperature should be 85 – 92 degrees Fahrenheit.

What Do Mud Turtles Eat?

• Mud turtles are omnivores, and their diet includes animal protein (worms, insects, fishes, snails, etc.), vegetables (parsley, dandelion green, algae, etc.), fruits (apple, pear, berries), and commercial food (pellets, canned items, frozen fish).

Mud Turtle Food to Avoid:

• Sugary candy, dairy items, deep-fried items, high-fat, burgers, hot dogs, or fast foods, and processed foods like sausage.

How Much to Feed a Mud Turtle?

• Two methods are provided: the 15-minute rule and the head method, which help determine the amount of food to give.

Mud Turtle Health Issues and Treatment:

• Vitamin A deficiency, respiratory infection, and eye issues are listed along with their symptoms and treatment advice.

Shell Rot:

• It’s a condition caused by a fungal or bacterial infection, and the infographic advises on how to treat it at home or when to see a vet.