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I normally try not to handle my turtles too much, but since I'm concerned about my female (Pearl) being pregnant, I've been trying to check her for that and check them for possible signs for fights that may happen while I'm gone. They've been showing some signs of aggression and/or mating rituals. It's kind of hard to tell. Anyway, I'm on the look out.

The other day I noticed the male (Colby) has this odd red dot on his chin. I don't know how he got it, but I'm pretty concerned about it. Any ideas what it is or how to treat it? Possibly from Pearl? A scrape? An infection or fungus?

It looks like blood under the skin. Is it? Maybe he's been rubbing up against something rough, like a rock.

here you go:

Looks a little like a blood blister... If you've been seeing signs of agression (which can be the result of unwanted advances), it could be a nip. I'd use a q-tip to clean it--either plain water or diluted betadine (50/50) or diluted Hibiclens if you have it) and apply some ointment like Neosporin. Keep the turtle out of the water for a bit to let it be absorbed a little.

If they're starting to show the signs you described, you might start thinking of separating them.

Not that I'm suggesting it for this situation, but should you ever have a turtle sore lanced?

I suppose it would be based on what type of sore it is and what the cause is. Outside of ear abscesses, I'm not aware of other situations where lancing was common.

Thank you all so much! This has been really helpful.

I've been thinking about separation, it's just a really tricky situation with my apartment. I don't have room for another tank. The thought of having to give one away is really heartbreaking, especially considering that I don't know what sort of care he/she would receive. But then again, who wants blood blisters? ...Things to think about.

Anyway, thanks again.