I was wondering if any of you have raised Spotteds from age 0 to sexual maturity. The literature states that they reach sexual maturity at about 80 mm carapace length (~3.2 inches) and at ages from 6 to 14 years (slower rates typical for more northerly regions). However, this would be for wild turtles.

Does this size seem to hold true for those of you who have raised hatchlings up to maturity? If so, about how old were your captive turtles before they reached this size? It would be interesting to note any limitations on the rate of maturation for captive Spotteds (i.e. is there an age minimum?). I'm guessing its ~6 yrs or less before reproduction (assuming a relatively rapid growth rate).

I've also seen posts on here from people asking how long Spotteds live. James Harding (Amphibians and Reptiles of the Great Lakes Region) states that a wild individual was known to be 26 yrs old and that a captive specimen survived 42 years. These would of course be minimum ages.

Any thoughts?

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