General Care Discussion :: Shell CHECK please- want to prevent pyramid and shell rot

[Oshynlover]

Concerned about Manny's Shell. Some spots feel indented and some feel above. I dont know if this is normal or if he's shedding but I can't tell. Here is some information to help you form your opinion. Any input is greatly appreciated. Lighting is not good with the camera but its the best I can do at the moment.

Stats:
Sex is unknown
RES
2.3" shell

His Diet is:
* Zoo Med Hachling Aquatic Turtle Food (Tiny Pellets) only feed size of head
* Tubifex Worms by hikari two little clumps
* Occasional Lettuce (dark green or red leaf) one or two leaf per week
* Unfortunately has access to fish flakes (not much but he goes for it) I try to avoid it.

**In the process of getting water lettuce.

Living Condition:
* 43 gal tank
* (2) basking area large with UVB light
* Water changes once a week (about 20-25%) plus cleans aquarium decor
* water temp: ranges from 77-81 degrees. Trying to regulate better. Having heater issues. been more stable lately though.
* Cuttle bone in tank
* Water looks clear

LIGHTING MAKES IT LOOK WORSE THAN IT IS... but still want to get opinion.

SHELL DRY:










SHELL WET





THANK YOU!

[TheComputerGremlin]

From your description of his diet and the looks of his shell, I think he's getting too much protein. Worms should be given as a once per month treat only, so he's probably getting too much of that. Also, remember that lettuce contains calories and can lead to a fat turtle if given in excess. If you are giving 1-2 whole leaves of red/green leaf lettuce, I think that's too much for a turtle that size. I give my 3.5" turtle a shell sized piece three times a week and he seems to be doing fine. Other than that, everything sounds fine. It only looks like very slight pyramiding that can be corrected with a lower protein diet and a shed.

[Chrisbarnett]

I agree w/ CompGremlin. Do cut down on the Tubifex worms to a treat only once per month.

I voted for Pyramiding that can be corrected.

[Oshynlover]

Thank You!!!!

Would it ok to JUST feed pellets to a baby or should I incorporate some other foods into his diet?

[Chrisbarnett]

You can always offer veggies and cuttlebone. manny may eat it one day!

[mikee]

My suggestion is to cut back on the food. I start feeding mine every other day at about 3 inches. They are the best beggers but, you will have to cut back.

[marisa]

Your turtle needs to shed scutes.