Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi everyone. I'm kind of new to soft shelled turtles. I am looking into getting one soon and was wondering if any species could fit comfortably in a 20 gallon tank. I of course would have to go for a male because the females get quite large. I was just wondering so take it easy. Thanks!! jdlyk

Well, sorry to disappoint. I think that a minimum size for an adult male of the smallers species would be maybe a 55 gallon.
A 75 gallon would be better, if you want to consider the standard aquarium sizes.
Females need ponds, stock tanks , tubs or pools.

BUT
you could keep a hatchling or juvenile in a twenty gallon for a year or two.

Thanks for the reply. I've decided to wait until I have more turtle experience to get a soft shell. Maybe when I can afford a 75 gallon. Thanks a lot.

Can a softshell stay in an outside pond year round. We are in So. Cal. The typical eveing temp is about 45 . I have not checked water temps. Will do that soon.