Habitat - Indoor :: 44 Gallon Tank Question

[albinoturtle]

I'm researching to see what it would take to provide an adequate living area for 2 RES. I currently have an 44 gallon tank that looks just like this.

http://mrgraft.tripod.com/fish/id1.html

I know the equation 10 gal for every inch, but how fast do they grow???

Inch per year? or something like that. I don't mind getting a bigger aquarium but I probably won't be able to for another year since I will be moving.

[steve]

For a turtle tank, width and length are more important height. A 40 gallon long or breeder tank should be suitable for about 12-18 months. The tank in that picture isn't suitable for turtles.

[sonyj]

Growth depends on a number of factors including genetics, health, feeding routine etc. Under perfect conditions they can grow around an inch a year but will do their fastest growing in the early years. Hatchlings can grow quite a bit in their first couple years. Female RES have been shown to grow faster than males in some studies. Having a healthy and correct habitat also contributes to growth since it is directly related to their health.

What are the size of the turtles now? How old are they? (estimate a year or older? or under a year?)

[albinoturtle]

I don't have turtles yet. Just investigating right now. I used to have to RES when I was a boy and didn't care for them properly mostly due to lack of information. I like researching before I buy anything anymore.

[sonyj]

I congratulate you on doing your research first. Turtles are a big commitment and the more info you know early on the better life you can give them. And there won't be any big surprises after getting them if you know what you are getting into first.

[missibsu]

I would add that it is most cost effective to go to the biggest possible tank you can. It saves buying a bunch of smaller tanks and then having nothing to do with them...or the space. It will also last longer if you can go bigger now.

Check sites like www.craigslist.com and www.freecycle.org for great used tanks. Sometimes you can get a great deal.

[marisa]

Nice-looking tank... for fish. I'd go with a stock tank.

[reptilegrrl]

I also think it is great that you are researching BEFORE getting turtles. Go you!

I agree with all those upthread that such a tank is not really suitable for turtles. Turtles can be kept in large storage containers when they are small, and as they grow they need bigger homes. A stock tank is a great eventual home.