Algae Growing on Red-Eared Sliders?

Question

I have two red-eared sliders, and I noticed that algae has grown on them after a winter of hibernation. I've had them for about 7-8 years now, and this has never happened before. I know that algae sometimes grow on turtle shells, but one of my turtles has a hind foot covered with algae - it actually grew on its skin. I don't think this is normal... Has anyone had similar experiences? Is this a normal occurance? And if not, how do you get rid of the algae? I was able to wash the carapace, but my turtle won't let me touch its foot. Also, this turtle has been sick since last spring, while the other one is healthy and doesn't have any algae growth on its limbs. Could poor health have had something to do with it?

Sorry if that was confusing, I just have two questions - is this normal and are there any ways to get rid of the algae on my turtle's foot. Any answers appreciated, thanks!

Answer 1

Using dilute bleach is OK as long as you keep it away from the head... it just is not going to do a lot when this diluted. (Turtles and reptiles in general are pretty resistant to sodium hydrochloride, and it makes an excellent disinfectant when used right.)

Sulfa dip is not going to do a lot- algae is not a bacteria.

Try wiping the algae with Betadine skin cleanser or a similar product, then keep the turtle snug and dry for several hours to let it dry. Repeat daily until well-cleared up.

Here is a link: http://www.austinsturtlepage.com/Care/medshell.htm

I WOULD double check my basic cares as well.

Answer 2

NO NO NO what ever u do do not use bleech u can go to the pet store and get something called turtle sulfa dip should clear up in about a week if it doesnt go to the vet and get betadine solution it clears that up plus helps to heal sores that should help with everything if ur turtle still is acting sick after the algea clears then take him to the vet

Answer 3

hi! Congrats on your momentary buddy! I even have owned over 12 animals myself (i'm 12) consisting of my 2 pink Eared Sliders ( I even have owned over 40 pets for the period of my existence so a techniques, 12 being turtles so I actually have a super kind of adventure) No you ought to not be bothered approximately it, except it is going to become worse. you are able to take an previous gentle toothbrush and attempt to bathe a number of it off. How massive is the tank this is in? How massive is the particularly turtle? additionally you will desire to recognize, you ought to not clean the turtles tank on a daily basis. in case you do not have a clear out, you will desire to alter the water weekly, because of the fact the stages of calcium, iron potassium etc would be diverse interior the recent water than the previous water and this would rigidity the turtle greater then it desires to be, (cleansing a turtles tank is already very annoying, no count the way you do it and changing it too often would reason pointless greater suitable rigidity. good success! Love Emily

Answer 4

DON'T USE BLEACH!!!!!

Both of my turtles have gone through a similar thing. (Except they're indoors and don't hibernate). I use an old toothbrush to clean the carapace and tried to make the basking area more appealing so they'd spend more time completely drying while basking. Once they started doing that, it started to clear up. If you're conscerned about their health, take them to a vet that specializes in reptiles.

Answer 5

A vary small dose of bleach like say a tea spoon or two in a gallon of water and let him swim in that for a few minutes a couple times a day until cleared up, also there are vitamin drops for turtles and some eye drops . See a small animal vet. or check out a well supplies pet store.