Habitat - Indoor :: Stock Tank

[TNTurtles]

Ok well i have 2 hatchling RES and obvioulsy need to upgrade my tank size from the 10 gallon i have. Since i dont have that much money, I was thinking of getting a stock tank. What is everyone's opinion on these? Are they much easier to manage/clean? Do you have to place it on a stand or is the floor fine? Do the turtles mind that they cant see out the sides? Is it really that big a loss if you cant see inside the water? One thing i really love about my glass tank is being able to watch where they go underwater but they really need a bigger tank and im willing to comprimise for their well-being. I've also tried finding a bigger clear rubbermaid tub but have only looked online...would those work as well? I dont think they go up to 100gallons like i was planning on buying as a stock tank. Well if anyone has used one or is using one and has some tips about them, Id appreciate it

[steve]

I don't have one, but I wouldn't hesitate to get one if I needed. Cleaning should be easier, especially with an optional drain plug. Since these tanks come in different shapes, most people will likely put them on a floor. I don't think not being able see through it bothers the turtles at all - if anything, it allows for some more privacy. The largest Rubbermaid I've seen was 60 gallons... not bad.

[marisa]

I think stock tanks are great--I'm using two indoors and have three more that probably will be used outside during the summer. I think they're more natural than a tank--turtles don't look out the sides of ponds they're in. You'd most likely have one on the floor. True, you can't watch them from the side, but you can watch them from above, which can be equally fascinating (they don't always know you're looking). Unlike preformed ponds, they are one basic shape, the surface area may vary depending on the brand you buy, as well as size. If you get one with a drain plug, make sure it's on tight enough so it doesn't leak.