Other Turtle Discussion :: Unusual Problem?

[ZooKeeper]

I have a strange problem. I've searched but can't find anything regarding this on the site.

After I feed Tilly (within just a few minutes) her tank smells awful. This is the only time there is an odor. Her tank and filter is kept very clean and, like I said, the only time I notice it is right after she eats. On the days I don't feed her, there is no odor.

Does anyone else have this problem?

[SpotsMama]

I haven't noticed any particular smell. What do you feed your turtle? Some of those pellets can be pretty stinky.

[ZooKeeper]

I feed her HBH Turtle Bites (the yellow container). I hadn't thought that it might be the food. Maybe I should switch brands.

[SpotsMama]

I'm not familiar with those pellets. My Spot eats mostly Reptomine. They can stink, especially if they've been sitting on the shelf too long, but I haven't noticed a smell after I've fed them to Spot.

Do you test the water for ammonia and nitrites? It's possible that these chemicals are building up and when your turtle eats she stirs up the water so you notice the smell. The chemicals are invisible so even if the water looks perfect they can be building up. Your bio filter (as opposed to a mechanical filter) is supposed to be neutralizing ammonia and nitrites.

Do you use charcoal in your filter?

[steve]

I have HBH Turtle Bites in my pellet rotation. SpotsMama, it has the turtle picture that Jessica modeled her t-shirt design after They are no odors after I use them.

[zero_tails]

wierd case, maybe that pack you bought just gives off odour when it gets wet