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Should I use a heater in a turtle tank with a heat lamp already there?

Jan 02, 2009 by krzrdiaz | Posted in Reptiles

Hey guys, I recently purchased a 20 Gallon Turtle Tank Starter Kit and I have a Mississippi Map Turtle and a couple tropical fish ( 2 tetra's and a sucker fish ) and I'm wondering if the heat lamp is enough to keep the water at a good temperature for my ecosystem. I also have a heater just in case it doesn't do the trick but i don't want to waste energy on overheating a tank if this is so happening.

At walmart they have sicker thermometers you stick on the outside of the tank and it will tell you the temperature. For my 2 turtles the water is supposed to be in the 70's. And the light works just fine, but I have a 10 gallon tank. I think the sticker thing is about $3.00. I would buy one of those to see what the temp is. Instead of going out and buying a $30 heater.

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Easy Steps to Making a Red Eared Slider Tank

by Byron Joseph

What You Need in Your Turtle's Tank

When you build your red eared slider tank, you have to make sure you have the proper equipment. The size of your turtle will determine what size tank you need, but you can generally start with a tank that is 20 to 55 gallons. One way to estimate the proper size is to have ten gallons of water for every inch of turtle. For example, if your turtle is six inches long you should have about a sixty gallon tank. Using this rule will help you find the right size to make your turtle its healthiest.

Your tank should contain a "land" area as well as water. The water must be deep enough that your turtle can completely submerse itself. Remember that the red eared slider (an aquatic turtle) enjoys the water and will spend a great deal of time there. It is important to have a "land" area for your turtle to rest on because your turtle cannot breathe underwater. Materials such as rocks or other non-organic matter is the best. Things like wood chips may be eaten by your turtle or they may grow fungus or rot, all of which are bad for your turtle's health.

A filtering system is optional for keeping the water clean. If you do not use one, you will need to keep an eye on your turtle's water to make sure it stays clean. Remember that excess turtle waste left in the tank can make your turtle sick.

An important thing to keep in mind about a filtration system is that it must be set not to suck too hard. Remember that your turtle cannot breathe underwater and it may drown if it gets caught in the system and stays submerged for a long time.

Choosing The Right Temperature For Your Red Eared Slider Tank

It is important to have the right temperature inside your red eared slider tank. One thing that is important for your indoor pet turtle is to try to keep it warm. Ideally, their surroundings should be kept at 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit. You can lower the temperature 5-10 degrees at night. You should use a heat lamp to keep the tank at an ideal temperature.

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