Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Ok so here is the 411, we have 4 turtles, 3 female 1 male, 1 female turned one in March the other three will be one next month. We have them in a 55 gallon tank with two basking areas with a heater and a Fluval 404 filter. Before we could clean the tank every 2-3 weeks because the fluval was doing a great job. Now we have to do it every 9-10 days. My fiance and I are terribly frustrated with the cleaning process. His very supportive family bought us a 16 gallon Wet/dry Shop Vac. However about half way through emptying the tank the shopvac begins to leak everywhere. We were wandering if people could offer us ideas on how they empty the tank and what they use, as well as offer any information on what we could do to improve filtraion so we dont have to clean every 9-10 days. Also just so you know we do take all four out every night to feed them as to restrict as much mess as we can, does everyone do this?

I also feed in a separate container, and that has been the thing that cuts down the mess the most.

But when it is time to clean, I use a sump pump to empty the water from the tanks. That sump pump has changed my life! Bought it at the hardware store for less than $70, but they probably sell smaller ones for less. It has cut the time I spend cleaning by at least 80%! Worth every dime - I would highly recommend one, and you can use a hose to empty the water anywhere: in the tub, toilet, or out the door.

By the way, how large are the turtles? maybe it is time for a bigger tank?

Good luck

I don't know what kind of water vac you use but I got one from jelinek.com which fits with any garden hose (it empties the tank in less than 10 min). You may also purchase the python no spill clean and fill thing from any major online supplier...get 2 tupperware containers fill with luke warm water place the turtles in the container for 5-10 min (so they can adjust to the temps) then feed give thema few more min to poop (warm water encourages them to eliminate). You may consider a canister filter (submersible fluval's may not work with that many turtles)...have you considered building a secure escape proof predator proof pond? For that many turtles continuous upgrades of glass/acrylic tanks will be very burdensome for you in the long run...or you may adopt out some females (male female=pregnant turtles soon)...good luck

i recommed the Python Water Changing system--it sucks the water out using suction created by your sink, then reverses to fill. it has made my life so much easier!!!! they have a 25 foot and a 50 foot model, i believe they range from 40-70 dollars but worth every cent. get at pet store or online; find the webpage by doing a search on Python Products