Shallow water for RES?

Question

the depth of water is only about 4 inches
is it ok to keep two sliders?
each of them is 3 inches long

Answer 1

No. This habitat is far too small for a species that enjoys freely swimming in large spaces. We suggest aiming for about 10 gallons of water per inch of shell length to give them enough room. 2 3" turtles would need about 60 gallons of water!

For more info, try http://www.redearslider.com

Answer 2

I agree with Yexalen, although 4" is definitely the minimum, and you're kind of pushing it... If you can increase it to 6" that would be great. I have an RES that is 2" and has 4" of water in a 15 gallon aquarium, and it's perfect for him (although I have to clean it often, but I'm fine with that). I would advise a 30 gallon with 6" of water, a floating dock (or something else he can sit on to bask that takes him completely out of the water). A heater is a must as well, and keep the water at 80'F (28'C). Small stones on the bottom keep it's poop and other debris from floating around as well.
I'm sorry if you already knew all of this (you probably did), but I just like to make sure turtles get the care they need.

Answer 3

Yes That is fine and could probably be deeper my baby slider is about 3-4 inches and another slider about 6 and their water is about a foot deep and they both swim fine. Make sure they have land and can get on it or they will drown. And if you want more water introduce it slowly so that they get used to swimming... The 4 inches is fine and they really dont NEED anymore, but its okay if its deeper.

Answer 4

NO, thats not enough water. The water should be double the height of the turtle. That way, if the turtle accidentally flips over on his back, he can turn over quickly. Without enough water he will struggle, and could become injured or die. They should be able to swim in the water as well.