General Care Discussion :: Baby RES has soft plastron, is that normal?

[CrossKnight]

Hi.

Both my Baby RES have a plastron that is soft. I mean when I tap on it lightly it feels hard but when I push in gently the plastron goes in a little, if you have a baby turtle can you try it? I wonder if it is normal.

Also both my turtles always hang out at the water filter, does yours do that?

Also is a 60 Watt light bulb good for heat? I measure the heat and it was at 88-90 F, but is the light to bright? I have spot lights one is for heat and the other is UVB which is 40 watts.

[grey goose]

Baby shells are relatively soft. Are they basking? Hanging out at the filter may be their safe spot, or where they feel most comfortable. Basking temps sound good, but the light should not be so close that they could make contact with it or the fixture....

[CrossKnight]

They can never touch the light and they do bask so I guess it is normal.
Thanks!! I was a little worried about it.

[CrossKnight]

Oh, is it ok if the water filter lets out a lot of bubbles or should I make only water come out??

[grey goose]

What kind of filter?

[CrossKnight]

A Duetto 100 Filter submrsible power filter. Works with 15-20 gallon tanks. My tank is a 15 gallon one.

[grey goose]

I would set it so only water comes thru. Open the flow control all the way.

[CrossKnight]

Do you mind if I ask why its better not to have bubbles??

[marisa]

What is the brand/name of your UVB light that's 40 watts?

[CrossKnight]

I forgot, sorry. It was the only one at the pet shop and it was $22.99.