why do turtles stink?

Question

We have a snake neck and a side neck turtle and if you remove them from the water they stink with a capital S!! Why?

Hi Ian W 1963. Is there any way to clean them apart from water changes? Soft toothbrush etc?

Answer 1

If they have a filter fitted in the tank then it should have some carbon granules inside it to absorb as much of the ammonia that is being produced by the turtles. Try cleaning the filter more often and changing the filter medium regulary. Also try not to overfeed as the excess food in the water will rot and cause more smells. Remove all food left after about 30 minutes and this will help to keep them clean. Feed small ammounts two or three times a day rather than one large feed.
Have a look at www.artsaquaticsandanimals.com for more help or advice.

Answer 2

Turtles and Terrapins are breeding grounds for many of the serious bugs that can make humans very sick. Salmonella and Staff buildup on the shells and skins and multiply like crazy in the warm tempreture controlled water. Thats why you must wash with anti bacterial soap after handling them or cleaning tanks.

They smell so bad because of this build up of billions of both live and dead virus that is covering the surface area of the animals.

Answer 3

Turtles have a habit of eating their own stool. This behavior seems disgusting, but is quite natural for turtles.for this reason they can smell..


If not taken care of properly, turtles stink!!!

You have to be careful to keep the tank clean or it will smell.

Answer 4

it's all a mater of perspective. I bet turtles think that we stink.

Answer 5

my brother is having the same prob so hes getting rid

Answer 6

um i don't really no i think its caz of their belly an stuff srry i couldn't help but um good luck tryin 2 find tha answer

Answer 7

right guard shortage