Origin
South America.
Benefits of keeping
The yellow belly turtles are sociable turtles and easy to keep but will grow to approx 8-10”. They are a popular turtle due to their striking colouration. Males have a thicker tail than females.
Housing
A minimum of a 36” aquarium is needed for these turtles, their enclosure should also contain heater/ filter/ lighting system with a 5.0uvb terrarium bulb.
The aquarium should have a open swimming area / basking area (out of water) and a shaded area.
Substrate and furnishings
Gravel / sand substrate with a mixture of rocks / wood and plants (silver or play sand is ideal).
Heating
Submersible heater 22-26c (72-78f)
Lighting
5.0uvb terrarium bulb 8 - 10 hours per day.
Diet and feeding
These turtles can be fed on bloodworm/ meal worms/ insects / aquatic vegetation / turtle food dry and frozen. Calcium additive.
Maintenance
Every 2-3 weeks clean glass / clean filter (not under tap water) / 25% water change (syphon cleaner) use a water conditioner to make the tap water safe.
Salmonella
Like all living things reptiles can carry salmonella which can be acquired by ingestion (via the mouth) Good hygiene is important when you keep any animal. You are more likely to acquire salmonella from raw chicken, a stale cream cake or a dog so don’t assume your reptile is the only suspect.
Wash you hands after handling all animals.
