General Care Discussion :: Discolouration of shell

[Paynter]

Shell discolouration

Hi! My turtle Spyk is almost 10 years old and recently I've noticed his shell is becoming discoloured. It is still firm and had no odour. He eats normally and basks a good amount, and I keep his tank clean. It doesn't seem to bother him but I am just worried it may be bad for his health. If anyone could help me out on what this is or how to make sure it isn't hurting him I would greatly appreciate it.

[Paynter]

Shell a year ago

this was his shell about a year ago

[steve]

Hi Paynter, this mostly looks like melanism, which is pretty normal. In most cases, the shell just becomes darker... the skin grayer and the stripes a bit spotty. I don't often see more yellow, but have seen pictures of it. If it were becoming white, then you would likely be dealing with an infection of some type.

[Paynter]

Thanks! I'll keep an eye on it just in case.