General Care Discussion :: Filter too powerful for hatchling?

[ashipyor]

Tilly was recently upgraded to a 30 gallon tank (she's about 1 inch) since I wanted to move her to something that would last for a few (2) more inches. In addition to the new tank I purchased an Rena XP3 filter in hopes that I would not be buying a new filter for quite some time. The filter is obviously a LOT stronger than her old "turtle" filter. Sometimes if she goes under the spray bar she gets swooshed to the bottom of the tank from the pressure. She seems like she is learning to live with this but I'm worried about the potential of her gettin stressed out? I feel like her swimming skills keep improving...but it's not like I can ask her how's she's handling the new filter. Any insight is greatly appreciated. If you speak "Turtle" I will hire you for your rare services.

[TheComputerGremlin]

My turtle initially had some trouble dealing with my Rena XP3, she was around 3 inches and she had just been put in deep water for the first time in 3 months. So I don't know if it was the depth or the filter. But it took her only about a week and she became very comfortable with it. I don't think she was stressed, it was more cute because she was determined to get where she wanted.

If you are very concerned, you can tilt the output spray into the tank wall for now, that decreases the overall push of it. You can also get a piece of plexiglass to block it as well. I'd say in combination with the spray being directed into the tank wall, Tilly will get the hang of it soon enough.

[mikee]

I would suggest that you add another discharge hose to cut in half the turbulence. I have a 350 gph on a 29 gallon and they do fine. Make sure your suction has a grate on it so he won’t get stuck. You will find the high volume will keep you tank cleaner. Your turtles will get accustomed to it.

[ashipyor]

@ TheComputerGremlin- right now I'm using the spraybar, do you suggest I switch to the other set-up? You're right though...Tilly seems to be determined is getting better by the day.

[SpotsMama]

Once they get used to it, most turtles enjoy swimming back and forth in some turbulence. Spot's favorite thing is swimming back and forth in the water as it comes from the hose outdoors when I'm topping off the water in his outdoor pond.