Red Eared Slider Turtles Banned? | Turtles in Aquariums | How to keep a Turtle | Mayur Dev Tips

Mayur Dev - Aquascaper2 minutes read

Red eared slider turtles are not native to India, needing specific care such as sunlight, a balanced diet, and a suitable habitat to thrive and must not be released into local water bodies. Owners should be aware of potential health issues, including salmonella infection, and responsibly rehome them if they can no longer care for the pet to prevent harm to native wildlife.

Insights

  • Red eared slider turtles are not native to India, originating from South America, particularly Florida, found in marshes, ponds, and lakes. They are amphibious creatures requiring both land and water, with a need for basking spots for sun exposure.
  • Turtles can live up to 40 years in the wild and up to 70 years in captivity, but they should not be released into Indian water bodies as they are invasive species that can harm local wildlife. Additionally, turtles can suffer from various health issues, including kidney stones and salmonella infection, making proper care crucial to prevent fines or legal consequences under the Wildlife Act of 1972.

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Recent questions

  • Where do red eared slider turtles originate from?

    South America, particularly Florida.

  • How do red eared slider turtles regulate body temperature?

    By basking in the sun or entering water.

  • What do red eared slider turtles eat?

    Guppies, small fishes, prawns, and vegetables.

  • How long can red eared slider turtles live in captivity?

    Up to 70 years.

  • What should you do if you can no longer care for a pet turtle?

    Take it to an aquarium shop, CUPA, SPCA, or government organizations for rescue.

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Summary

00:00

Red eared slider turtles: care and concerns

  • Red eared slider turtles are not native to India, originating from South America, particularly Florida, found in marshes, ponds, and lakes.
  • They belong to the Reptilia family, are cold-blooded, and regulate body temperature by basking in the sun or entering water.
  • Red eared sliders require 2 hours of light or sunlight daily to maintain body temperature and energy levels.
  • They are amphibious creatures, needing both land and water, and must have access to basking spots for sun exposure.
  • Turtles need a tank with enough water for full submersion, slow-moving water, and a resting area above water.
  • They are omnivorous, consuming both non-veg and veg foods, with a diet including guppies, small fishes, prawns, and vegetables.
  • Turtles can live up to 40 years in the wild and up to 70 years in captivity, laying eggs in sand or soil with gender determined by temperature.
  • Turtles should not be released into Indian water bodies as they are invasive species that can harm local wildlife.
  • Turtles can suffer from various health issues like kidney stones, dehydration, kidney prolapse, shell irregularities, fractures, and shedding due to poor nutrition and water quality.
  • Salmonella infection is a significant concern from turtles, especially for children, due to poor water quality, leading to potential fines or jail time under the Wildlife Act of 1972 if not cared for properly.

17:54

Responsible Pet Ownership: Avoid Releasing in Rivers

  • If you can't care for a pet anymore, take it to an aquarium shop, CUPA, SPCA, or government organizations for rescue; do not release them in local rivers or canals to prevent harm to indigenous species. Ensure you understand the responsibilities of pet ownership before bringing one home, including knowing the price, feeding requirements, and potential size growth. Avoid keeping banned Indian species like star tortoises and soft-shelled turtles at home.
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