- 1). Select a tank appropriate to the size of your turtle. Turtles require a lot of swimming space, but not a lot of depth. Pick a tank that is long and wide rather than tall and narrow.
- 2). Select a filter appropriate for the volume of water in your tank. Pick a filter stronger than you think you will need. Canister filters are the best choice for turtle tanks. In-tank filters do not have enough filtration power to compensate for the amount of waste turtles produce. Hang-on filters must be placed at water level, which is not an option in most turtle tanks.
- 3). Choose lighting and a heat source for your tank. Turtles require UVB lighting for proper bone and shell development. The temperature requirements vary by the species of turtle, but a heat lamp is the best option. Heat-lamp bulbs are available that emit both heat and UVB light.
- 4). Stack smooth rocks or pieces of wood to provide a spot under the light and heat where the turtles can get completely out of the water to bask. Make sure the area is dry to avoid fungal infections.
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