• Plan adult size from day one: ~100+ gallons for most adults.

• Deep, open water for strong swimming + a completely dry basking dock.

• Rule of thumb: ~10 gallons per inch of shell length.

• 12h light / 12h dark.

• High-output UVB spanning part of the tank; target ~UVI 3–5 at the bask.

• Bright visible light over water; replace UVB per schedule.

• Water: ~75–79°F (24–26°C); warmer end for hatchlings.

• Basking platform (dry): ~90–95°F (32–35°C).

• Measure with reliable thermometers/probes; lights off at night.

• External canister filter rated ~2–3× your actual water volume.

• Keep ammonia 0 ppm, nitrite 0 ppm, nitrate <~40 ppm.

• Partial water changes every 1–2 weeks (or as testing dictates).

• Bare bottom = easiest to clean. If substrate, use fine sand (avoid ingestible gravel).

• Stable basking dock/ramps, hides, driftwood, hardy aquatic plants.

• Secure all décor so it can’t trap the turtle.

• At least ~2× carapace length; deeper is great if basking is easy to access.

• <1 year: ~50% protein / 50% greens; offer daily (pellets every other day).

• >1 year: ~25% protein / 75% greens; veggies daily, protein 1–2×/week, pellets 2–3×/week.

• Staples: quality turtle pellets; dark leafy greens & aquatic plants; occasional earthworms/insects/whole prey.

• Provide cuttlebone for calcium.

• Limit handling; support with two hands; sliders can nip.

• Always wash hands after contact with animal, water, or equipment.

DAILY: Remove uneaten food/solid waste; top off with dechlorinated water.

WEEKLY/BIWEEKLY: Test ammonia/nitrite/nitrate/pH; partial water change; service filter per maker.

SAFETY: Clean equipment away from kitchens; disinfect sinks/tubs if used.

• Buoyancy issues (tilting), lethargy, appetite loss

• Swollen/closed eyes, nasal discharge

• Shell soft spots/erosion, foul odor, injuries/bites

→ See an experienced reptile vet promptly; husbandry check: heat/UVB, water quality, diet.

• US: Illegal to sell turtles <4" shell length; many states restrict sliders—check local laws.

• Never release pets outdoors (invasive). Rehome via rescues if needed.

• Public health: Salmonella risk—wash hands; keep out of kitchens; supervise children.

□ Large watertight tank (aim ~100+ gal adult)

□ External canister filter (rated ~2–3× water volume)

□ Test kit (ammonia/nitrite/nitrate, pH) + dechlorinator

□ Dry basking dock/platform with ramp

□ Heat lamp (halogen) for bask; IR temp gun/thermometer

□ High-output UVB fixture; timer; GFCI outlet

□ Stable décor (driftwood/rocks), hides, plants

□ Quality pellets; greens; occasional protein items; cuttlebone

□ Siphon/gravel-vac; dedicated buckets/towels