Can Musk Turtles Be Kept with Brazilian Turtles?

As the popularity of keeping turtles as pets continues to rise, species like the Musk Turtle and the RedEared Slider have become particularly favored. Many turtle enthusiasts, after becoming fond of one type of turtle, often find themselves eager to add more varieties to their collection. However, not all turtles are compatible for cohabitation. For instance, Musk Turtles are not suitable for mixing with RedEared Sliders. Let's delve into more details about the dos and don'ts of turtle cohabitation.

1. Can Musk Turtles Be Kept with RedEared Sliders?

Musk Turtles should not be kept with RedEared Sliders due to several differences, including their behaviors and environmental needs.

Firstly, Musk Turtles are much smaller, with adults typically reaching lengths of 714 centimeters, whereas RedEared Sliders are larger, with adults growing to 2030 centimeters. The size discrepancy can lead to bullying, as RedEared Sliders may dominate Musk Turtles. Although both species are not highly aggressive, RedEared Sliders are more active and might constantly harass Musk Turtles. Musk Turtles, though shy and nonaggressive, may retaliate when attacked, sometimes displaying aggressive behaviors towards other turtles.

Secondly, Musk Turtles and RedEared Sliders have different environmental requirements. Musk Turtles thrive in deeper waters, while RedEared Sliders are adapted to shallow waters, making them less compatible for cohabitation.

2. What Other Turtles Can Musk Turtles Be Kept with?

Musk Turtles are better suited for cohabitation with species like the YellowBellied Slider, the Apple Snail Turtle, the Razorback Terrapin, the Round Island Box Turtle, and the Map Turtle. These turtles have similar sizes to Musk Turtles and tend to be more docile, reducing the likelihood of conflicts. Additionally, they prefer deeper waters, aligning with Musk Turtles' preferences for a more aquatic habitat.

3. What to Consider When Keeping Musk Turtles Together?

1. Select Appropriate Tank Mates: When introducing Musk Turtles to other species, it's crucial to choose companions that match their size, temperament, and habits. Musk Turtles, being smaller and less adept at competing for food, can be easily bullied by larger turtles. Ensuring compatibility is key to preventing injuries.

2. Provide Safe Spaces: Conflicts are inevitable when keeping turtles together, so it's wise to offer hiding spots for them to retreat to. Planting aquatic vegetation and adding submerged logs, rocks, and sand can create a more natural environment where turtles can navigate and find refuge from potential aggression.

3. Maintain Clean Water Quality: As the number of turtles in the tank increases, so does the risk of water pollution. To prevent bacterial overgrowth and maintain a healthy environment, it's important to change the water more frequently. Aim to change the water 23 times a week, and consider installing a filter to slow down water degradation.

We hope this guide on whether Musk Turtles can be kept with RedEared Sliders and the dos and don'ts of turtle cohabitation will be helpful to turtle lovers, enabling them to successfully mix and match their pets.