Filter Flow Rate And Turtle Tank Overflow Risks

Keeping a turtle as a pet requires a lot of work to maintain a healthy and hygienic environment for the turtle to live in. One of the most important features of a turtle tank is the filter, which helps to keep the water clean and the turtle healthy. Without a filter, the water in the tank will quickly become unclean and the turtle will get sick. While it is possible to regularly remove and replace the water, this is not a sustainable solution as turtles require large tanks and this process would be extremely inconvenient and wasteful. Therefore, it is important to invest in a good filter to keep the turtle tank clean and healthy.

Mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration

Mechanical Filtration

Mechanical filtration is the physical process of filtering out suspended or undissolved particulates from the water. This is often one of the primary forms of waste removal in an aquarium because it captures and removes waste and debris before it is broken down into nitrates and phosphates. Examples of mechanical filter media include filter rollers, filter pads, sponges, and filter socks.

Chemical Filtration

Chemical filtration involves removing dissolved contaminants that change the "chemical composition" of the water. Carbon, granular ferric oxide (GFO), and resin media are examples of chemical filter media. Carbon is a broad-spectrum adsorption media that can remove toxins, tannins, and odor-causing compounds. GFO binds to phosphate molecules so they can be removed from the water. Resin media targets specific heavy metals, phosphate, and various dissolved organic waste compounds.

Biological Filtration

Biological filtration harbours beneficial bacteria to biologically break down waste via the nitrogen cycle. In an aquarium, hobbyists can supply special biological filter media (bio-media) which simply provides extra surface area for the beneficial bacteria to grow. Bio-media includes ceramic rings, bio-blocks, bio-balls, and a variety of other inert porous materials.

Filtration for Turtle Tanks

Turtle tanks require a specific type of filtration to meet the needs of these reptiles. Turtles produce much more waste material and other by-products than fish, so the filter must be powerful enough to handle the sheer volume of water and provide essential benefits such as distributing oxygen and good bacteria, discouraging harmful bacteria, and regulating water temperature. Canister filters are recommended for turtle tanks as they are big and have large central chambers or multiple large trays to accommodate a lot of filtration.

How much filtration is needed

The amount of filtration needed for a turtle tank depends on the size of the tank and the number of turtles.

Size of the Tank

The general rule of thumb is to provide 10 gallons of water for every inch of your turtle's carapace length. For a turtle that is 6 to 8 inches in carapace length, a 50-gallon tank is suitable. Smaller turtles, such as painted turtles, can be housed in a minimum 75-gallon tank. Larger tanks are recommended to provide more space for swimming and a larger basking area.

Number of Turtles

If you have more than one turtle in your tank, you will need a larger filtration system to accommodate the increased waste. It is recommended to have two filters for a 20- to 55-gallon tank to reduce the number of water changes. For larger tanks of 75 to 125 gallons, a powerful canister filter, such as the Marineland multi-stage canister filter, is ideal.

Types of Filtration

There are three types of filtration: mechanical, biological, and chemical. Mechanical filtration uses filter media such as sponges to trap particles and debris. Biological filtration uses beneficial bacteria to convert harmful waste into less toxic byproducts. Chemical filtration uses activated carbon to absorb and neutralize certain chemicals, keeping the water clear and odour-free.

Flow Rate

The flow rate of the filter should be 6 to 8 times the amount of water in the tank per hour. This ensures that the water is adequately cycled and filtered.

Filter Maintenance

Regular maintenance is required to keep your filter working efficiently. Clean your filter monthly and replace the carbon insert every 3 to 4 weeks. Additionally, stick to a water change schedule, changing 25% to 50% of the water every two to four weeks.

Filter maintenance

Filters are essential for keeping turtle tanks clean and hygienic. There are three types of filtration: mechanical, biological, and chemical. Mechanical filtration uses filter media such as sponges to trap particles and remove them from the water. Biological filtration uses beneficial bacteria to convert harmful waste into less toxic byproducts. Chemical filtration uses activated carbon to absorb and neutralise chemicals, keeping the water clear and odour-free.

To maintain your filter, you should:

• Replace the filter media: While mechanical and biological filter media do not need regular replacement, chemical filter media (e.g. charcoal) should be replaced every 3-4 weeks.
• Clean the filter: Set aside time every month to clean the filter. Unplug the filter, remove the filter media, and rinse the inside of the filter and the filter media with water only (no soap or disinfectants). Replace any filter sponges that are too dirty.
• Practice good hygiene: Always use dry hands when handling the filter. Clean and disinfect all surfaces that come into contact with the filter and its components. Wash your hands and arms with soap and water, and apply hand sanitiser. Wash the clothes you were wearing during cleaning. Sterilise your rubber gloves in boiling water.
• Change the water: In addition to filter maintenance, you should change 30% of the water in your turtle tank every 1-2 weeks to maintain good water quality.

By regularly maintaining your filter and changing the water, you can ensure that your turtle has a clean and healthy environment in which to thrive.

Filter types

Filters are essential for turtle tanks as they keep the water clean and healthy for your pet. Turtles create a lot of waste, so a good filtration system is key.

There are three main types of filters for turtle tanks:

• Canister filters: These are considered the best option for turtle tanks. They are installed outside the tank and have large reservoirs with lots of room for filter media, such as sponges, ceramic rings, or carbon. Canister filters work by pumping water from the tank into the canister, where it passes through the filter media before being pumped back into the tank. They are easy to maintain and save space inside the tank.
• Internal filters: These filters work while submerged in the tank water and are more practical for smaller tanks. They come in various sizes but take up space in the tank, reducing the area available for your turtle.
• Hang-on-the-back (HOB) filters: HOB filters are commonly used for tropical and saltwater aquariums. They hang on the back of the tank and are simple to clean due to their accessibility. However, they have limited space for filter media and require the tank to be filled almost completely to avoid loud operation.

Other types of filters include submersible filters, which are suitable for small turtles, and undergravel filters, which are not recommended for turtle tanks as turtles may mistake the gravel for food and try to eat it.

When choosing a filter for your turtle tank, it is important to consider the tank size and the number of turtles you have. The filter should offer two to three times the capacity of your tank, and the flow rate should be enough to filter the entire volume of water at least once per hour. Additionally, look for filters that provide mechanical, biological, and chemical filtration to ensure effective waste removal and maintenance of water chemistry.

Water changes

Frequency of Water Changes

It is recommended to perform a 25% to 50% water change once a week to keep your turtle tank clean. However, the frequency of water changes may vary depending on factors such as the size of your turtle, the size of the tank, the type of filter, and whether you feed your turtle inside the tank. Partial water changes should be done regularly, ranging from weekly to two to three times a week if necessary.

Water Change Procedure

When performing a water change, use a gravel vacuum or a siphon to remove the old water from the tank. Never prime a siphon by mouth due to the risk of salmonella contamination. Replace the removed water with fresh, dechlorinated water. You can dechlorinate tap water using a water conditioner, which is available at pet stores. It is important to maintain a pH level between 6 and 8 for red-eared sliders.

Reducing the Need for Water Changes

While water changes are necessary, there are some ways to reduce their frequency:

• Efficient biological filter: Ensure you have an efficient biological filter that can cycle the water in your tank at least three times per hour. The stronger the pump, the better, as long as it doesn't disturb your turtle. Look for filters with efficient bio media like ceramic rings and bio balls.
• Increase water volume: Consider getting a bigger tank. The larger the tank, the more diluted the waste products will be, reducing the need for frequent water changes. The general guideline is 10 gallons of water per inch of turtle shell.
• Do not overfeed: Turtles tend to beg for food, but overfeeding will not only dirty the tank quickly but is also unhealthy for them. Feed adult turtles 3-4 times a week instead of daily.
• Aquatic plants: Consider adding aquatic plants to your tank. They consume chemicals that are toxic to turtles. However, it may be challenging to grow plants in a small tank with a hungry turtle.
• Partial water changes: Instead of changing all the water at once, you can change 20% of the water every few days.
• Feed in a separate container: You can feed your turtle in a separate container, reducing the amount of waste in the main tank. Use water from the tank to ensure it's warm enough, and then replace the water taken out with fresh water.

Frequently asked questions