Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I picked up a less than an inch long common snapper fishing yesterday. I have kept some frogs and lizards before, and have kept a large number of preditory fish, so I am not new to keeping animals. I have him in a 10 gallon with about 2 inches of water, and 1/4 of the tank landing area. It has a small strip lightfor lighting, but thats it. I need a basic run through for equiptment that would be good to get for now, and tips on how to maintain my tank. Any help would be good. Thank you.

It sounds like you hae a good start.

Four of the things I've learned:

1. Water temperature should be at least 70 degrees F. My baby snappers (18) would barely eat if it was any colder. A fully submersible heater is good.

2. They really seem to need a place to "hide". I found that their favorite was a green Christmas tree garland I cut into 6 inch pieces.

3. If it doesn't eat be patient. Mine didn't start eating for three months. The last eater took six months! (see picture) BTW they don't live in the little turtle bowl. I use a kiddie pool.

4. Do not use small gravel. Two turtles I fostered out were in a tank with gravel. They ate it and pretty much stopped eating. They pooped out the gravel and now they are fine.

In the area I live (far north) the water temp rarely gets above 70 degrees. I was told by another turtle keeper that if I get turtles from my area it was ok to go without a heater.

Other than that, do I need some sort of heat lamp, or filter?

He's right they would be ok. But keeping them above 70 degrees makes them more active, they eat more, they grow faster, and you will have more fun.

My hatchlings would hang out under the heat lamp after dinner. The warmth helps them digest their food.

Good luck!