Tartaruga de Barriga Vermelha

CARE GUIDE

Size: Adults reach around 25cm in length

Origin: Papua New Guinea

Lifespan: Up to 20 years

Natural Habitat: They inhabit rivers, estuaries and waterways with moderate current.

The Tartaruga de Barriga Vermelha is one of the most distinctive aquatic turtle species, with a very characteristic orange colouring. Its moderate size and active, bold personality make it a very attractive choice as a pet turtle for many keepers.

Although this is a relatively easy species to keep, you should pay attention to a few aspects and ensure certain conditions, which you will find in the following paragraphs.

Aquarium

Size: Minimum 150x45x45cm for 1 adult

Material: Glass

 - Heating and Lighting

Although semi-aquatic, the Tartaruga de Barriga Vermelha also likes to bask on land. A dry platform should be provided as a basking area at 28-32ºC. A 5-7% UVB lamp should also be used to provide the right levels of ultraviolet radiation for this turtle species. To provide both heat and UVB, we recommend a Mercury Vapour/Solar Lamp. Water temperature should be kept between 23-26ºC with a submersible aquarium heater. 

- Filtration

A filter is needed to keep the water clean, as these animals produce a lot of waste. Use a filter with a medium flow rate or one that can be adjusted. For adults we recommend an external filter for its superior performance.

- Decor

Sand or stones on the bottom of the aquarium make it easier for the turtles to move around (rock size and sand grain should suit the size of the turtle).

Rocks, logs and live plants can be used to decorate the aquarium.

Diet and Supplementation

Feeding habits: Omnivorous

- Foods

Staple: The staple diet should be a commercial food formulated specifically for aquatic turtles.

Occasional: Crickets, Roaches, Locusts, Mealworms, Waxworms, Calcium Worms, Bloodworms, Fish...

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