Green Turtle - 4cm

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Trachemys scripta elegans
• Common Name: Red-eared Slider (often called Red-eared Turtle)

  Adult Size:

  • Males: 15–20 cm (6–8 inches)

  • Females: 20–30 cm (8–12 inches)

• Life Expectancy: 20–40 years in captivity with proper care
• Habitat: Native to the southern United States, especially around the Mississippi River. Found in slow-moving freshwater bodies like ponds, lakes, marshes, and rivers with soft bottoms and abundant basking sites.

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size:
  • Juveniles: 75 liters (20 gallons)

  • Adults: At least 250 liters (65+ gallons) per turtle

• Ideal Temperature:
  • Water: 24–26°C (75–79°F)

  • Basking area: 30–32°C (86–90°F)

• pH Range: 6.5–8.0
• Water Hardness: Moderate (6–15 dGH)
• Temperament: Semi-aggressive. While not overly aggressive, they may nip at smaller tank mates or compete for food. Best kept alone or with similarly sized turtles.

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous: Yes. Diet should be varied and age-appropriate.
  • Juveniles: More carnivorous – bloodworms, mealworms, insects, small fish, turtle pellets
  • Adults: More herbivorous – dark leafy greens (kale, romaine, dandelion), aquatic plants (duckweed, anacharis), pellets, and occasional protein
  • Calcium source: Cuttlebone or calcium blocks to support shell health

Appearance

• Shell: Smooth, oval carapace that ranges from dark green to olive brown with yellowish striping
• Markings: Bright red patches behind each eye – the most distinctive feature
• Skin: Olive green with yellow stripes; claws are long, especially in males

Distinctive Features

• Red Ear Markings: Give the species its common name and help distinguish it from other sliders
• Aquatic with Terrestrial Behavior: Requires a dry basking platform under a heat lamp and UVB lighting for digestion and shell development
• Strong Swimmers: Need deep, clean, filtered water and plenty of room to move
• Longevity & Responsibility: Can live decades—require long-term commitment and proper husbandry