Habitat - Indoor :: Water depth

[kimendo]

What is the suitable depth for 3 turtles (2 are 6 inches, one is barely 4 inches). They're class pets that were brought in by students and I'm concerned about having the water too shallow for the bigger turles but too deep for the smaller one. I'm wondering if I'm better off just moving the small one to a tank of his own? Maybe it sounds stupid but I don't want him to be all by himself!

Kim

[marisa]

They're excellent swimmers, and the smaller one can have the same water depth as the larger ones. Absolute minimum would a bit more than the length of their shells. But, since they like to swim, the water can be quite a bit higher as long as they can't escape. The three are in a 30-gallon tank (read your introduction)? The smaller one would do fine by himself, but you need to create a complete set-up if you chose to separate them.

[kimendo]

Then the water is definitely too shallow... I will fix that first thing Monday. I would prefer to keep them together, so I think ultimately I'll just get a bigger thank.

Kim

[marisa]

If they're shell lengths without the curves are what you've said, go quite a bit bigger. A 90 - 100 gallon tank for the two you're keeping would be good (even larger if possible, since they'll grow).

[kimendo]

Thanks Marisa!