Is it safe to use sulfa block, add povidone iodine or chlorohexadine to water of baby soft shell for fungus?

Question

While I'm finding much info about turtles shedding shells, nothing specific re: my baby spiny soft shell. Not sure how to determine if he's shedding or developing fungus on shell. Have provided dry basking area; he chooses not to use it, submerges body in the sand most of the time, swims occasionally. Eating well commercial pellets. No longer very shy. Just want to keep him healthy. Using water from local underground natural spring (brought up to his tank's temperature, changing about 1/3 of water every 3-4 days) "Power pusher" aerator going constantly, except at feeding time, not filtering due to sand. Just concerned about fungus, if that's what it is, don't want to let it get away from me, but also don't want to put him at risk using "adult" remedies. Any input helpful. Thanks, nan

Answer 1

I have heard of using betadine (povdine) directly on the lesions, but never in the water. Typically, they usually recommend "dry docking" the turtle for a few week, meaning in water (clean) only to eat, then in dry area the remainder of the day. You may need to add a topical antifungal and/or systemic medications. Do you have a good reptile vet in your area? If your in Michigan I can recommend a few.

Answer 2

Here is a good care sheet, and they also sponser a great forum that can help: http://www.austinsturtlepage.com/Care/caresheet-spiny_softshell.htm

Softshells are notorious for fungi, and are considered a rather tricky pet. The two keys are absolutely clean water, and trying a little aquarion salt in the water (1tsp/gal).

I would not do any other chemicals for babies- besides, most of the stuff you mention will kill your biological filtration media.

You need to start filtering the water. Try a pre-filter or screen to protect it from the sand. The areator is not really doing much for the turtle other than creating a little water flow, which he filter would do as well.

Good luck!