Tank Size Requirements For Mississippi Map Turtles

Mississippi map turtles are a fun but demanding pet species that require a carefully planned environment to thrive. They are aquatic turtles that spend a lot of time swimming and need a tank setup with both land and water. The appropriate size of the tank depends on the turtle's sex, with males being smaller than females. A 75-gallon tank is typically sufficient for a male Mississippi map turtle, while a female will need a larger tank of around 125 gallons. The length of the tank is more important than the height, as these turtles are strong swimmers that need plenty of horizontal and vertical swimming space.

Water and land conditions

Mississippi map turtles require a tank that can accommodate both water and land conditions. In the wild, these turtles are found in large bodies of water, such as rivers, lakes, and streams, so their tank setup should mimic these natural conditions as closely as possible.

The water area should be large enough to allow the turtles to swim freely and dive deep. It is recommended to have at least 10 gallons of water per inch of the turtle's length. The water temperature should be maintained at around 75°F (24°C) using a submersible heater. The water quality needs to be pristine, as Mississippi map turtles are sensitive to water quality and can easily become ill from dirty water. To maintain optimal water quality, a powerful filter is necessary, and water changes should be performed regularly.

The land area, or basking area, should be large enough for the turtle to fully emerge from the water and dry off. Gravel built up with larger rocks or fine sand can be used to create a beach or basking platform. This area should have a heat source, such as a heat lamp, to maintain a temperature between 85°F and 90°F (29-32°C). UVB lighting is also crucial, as it provides the turtles with the necessary UVB rays for vitamin D synthesis and calcium metabolism. The UVB lamp should be turned on for 12 hours each day and replaced every six to nine months.

The tank should also include decorations and vegetation to provide hiding spots and security for the turtles. Floating accessories, such as raft haul-outs, can be used as resting spots for the turtles. Real or artificial plants can be added to create a natural environment and provide enrichment. It is important to ensure that the turtles have easy access between the water and land areas, and the land area should be in line with the water level to facilitate movement between the two.

Overall, the tank setup for Mississippi map turtles requires careful consideration of both water and land conditions to ensure the health and well-being of these fascinating creatures.

Tank size

Mississippi map turtles are aquatic turtles that are naturally found in large bodies of water, such as rivers, lakes, and streams. They are strong swimmers and spend a lot of time in the water, so their tank should provide plenty of swimming space.

The size of the tank will depend on the number of turtles and their gender. Male turtles are smaller than females, with males growing up to 5 inches and females up to 10 inches. A single adult male would do well in a 75-90 gallon tank, while a female will need at least a 125-gallon tank. If you plan on keeping multiple turtles, it is recommended to increase the tank size by 50% for each additional turtle. For example, two males could live comfortably in a 110-gallon tank, while two females would need a tank of at least 188 gallons.

In addition to the size of the tank, it is important to provide a basking area for the turtles to get out of the water and dry off. The basking area should be large enough for the turtle's entire body with some extra space to turn around. It should also be easily accessible, with a ramp or dock that allows the turtle to easily enter and exit the water. The height of the tank is not as crucial since the turtles cannot climb, but a minimum height of 12 inches is recommended.

Overall, Mississippi map turtles require a spacious tank with a dedicated basking area to ensure they have enough space to swim and relax.

Filtration and water flow

Mississippi map turtles are aquatic turtles that are naturally found in large bodies of water, such as fast-flowing rivers, and they are strong swimmers. They are also messy pets that produce a lot of waste, so a powerful filter is required to keep the water clean and prevent ammonia and nitrate levels from rising. A canister filter or an internal filter like the Cascade filter are good options for achieving very clear water. The filter should be constantly running to provide aeration and filtration.

Water changes should also be performed regularly, with a schedule that is adhered to. The enclosure should be fully cleaned once every three months.

The Mississippi map turtle thrives in mildly turbulent water flow. They like a strong current from a large filter or a powerhead.

Lighting and temperature

Mississippi map turtles require a basking area with a lamp that emits both heat and UVB light. The basking area should be large enough for the turtle to get its entire body out of the water and dry off. The basking temperature should be between 85°F and 90°F (29°C and 32°C), while the cooler areas of the tank should be no lower than 80°F (27°C). If the temperature drops below 65°F (18°C), the turtle will become less active and eventually go into hibernation.

The water temperature should be maintained at around 75°F (24°C) using a submersible heater. The ambient air temperature should be around 80°F (27°C).

UVB lighting should be provided for 12 hours each day, year-round, using a special reptile UVB bulb. The UVB lamp should be installed inside the tank, pointed at the land portion, which will be the turtle's basking spot. The bulb should be replaced every six to nine months, as the UVB rays are not visible to the naked eye and may expire before the standard filament for white light.

Mississippi map turtles are naturally found in the Mississippi Valley, as well as in Illinois, Nebraska, and the Gulf States from Mississippi to Texas. They inhabit large bodies of water, such as rivers, lakes, and streams, with abundant vegetation. To recreate their natural lighting in captivity, you can equip the turtle's tank with additional regular lights on a day-night timer.

Diet

Mississippi map turtles are omnivores, but adults tend to be more carnivorous than other "slider" turtles. They eat their food while swimming. A balanced diet for a Mississippi map turtle should include:

• Aquatic turtle pellets
• Fresh, leafy greens and vegetables like romaine lettuce, dandelion leaves, parsley, spinach, and collard and turnip greens
• Insects, like crickets, mealworms, and earthworms
• Crustaceans, like river snails and clams
• Fish, but avoid fatty fish like goldfish

The diet should be high in protein and low in fat. Female turtles, which have larger jaws, can eat larger prey like snails and clams. Male turtles should be fed smaller prey like aquatic insects, crustaceans, mealworms, mollusks, and fish.

Turtles should be fed only as much food as they will eat in under six minutes, three days per week. If feeding daily, only give them what they will eat in under two to three minutes. Feed them in the morning or afternoon, when they are typically most active.

Young turtles have bigger appetites and should be fed daily. After six months, cut back on feedings to every other day and add vegetation to their diet. Romaine lettuce can be offered in unlimited quantities at any age as it is mostly water and will not overload them with protein.

Mississippi map turtles also enjoy treats like fresh, chopped apple pieces and freeze-dried shrimp, but these should not make up a large percentage of their diet.

Frequently asked questions