Keeping an aquatic turtle tank clean?

Question

Every time I clean my turtle's tank, it becomes hideously dirty within three days. There is tons of nasty brown stuff all over the bottom, and floating around. I believe some of it is feces, some skin, and who knows what other weird stuff it is! I know I can't stop how often it goes to the bathroom, but what can I do to help keep it clean? And when it does get dirty how should I clean it?

The turtle is still only about 1&1/2 in diameter, will the mess get a lot worse as it gets bigger?

Answer 1

Filters help, but turtles can get REALLY messy. A good technique to consider is the 'feeding tank technique'- create an easy to clean 2nd tank, possibly from a big plastic tub, to feed the turtle in. Wait for it to finish eating at least, or even for the turtle to defecate, then return it to the main tank and clean the feeding cage. The filter will be a LOT more effective if we can keep the food residue out of it.
http://experts.about.com/q/Reptiles-704/aquatic-pet-turtle.htm

If you choose to feed them in their home tanks, you will need a filter system. get one that is at least twice as large as would be needed for a tank of fish the same size as your turtle tank. Under-gravel filters do not work with turtles. Even with a filter you will have to manually change the water about once a week. If the water is not filtered, you will need to change it every other day.

Cages must be kept clean. Anti-bacterial cleaning solutions are recommended. One ounce of bleach in ten ounces of water is one such solution. rinse the cage with clean water after using any solution. Don't use Lysol®, Lestoil®, or other such oil based cleaners; they are deadly to reptiles.
http://members.tripod.com/lvhs/cs12.htm

Answer 2

You don't say what your set up is but you probably currently need at least a 20 gallon tank - you will need a larger tank as your turtle grows.
You need the best aquarium filter you can afford rated for your aquarium size. You also need to change the water at least every 3 days.
Welcome to the labor intensive world of raising a turtle.
Most turtles do better in a small pond outside!

Answer 3

I have a turtle that lives in the water and the same thing happend to me I had to buy a filter at walmart it was only $15.00 or $20.00. Every morning or so take the thing in the filter out and clean all of the gounk out. I hope this works for you its worked well for me. Good Luck!!!!

Answer 4

definately get a filter- they really help alleviate the dirt, but keep in mind- turtles are just dirty. they will always be a little grimey and even with a filter you'll be cleaning it regularly, but you won't need to do it every three days at least.

Answer 5

i think maybe you could get an algea eater or something... try that.. but make sure it can live in the water you've got.

good luck with ur crapping turtle!
Lol

Answer 6

try cleaning it all the time maybe