Deep-Sea Turtle Species Ideal for Aquaculture

Part 1: Types of Turtles That Are Proficient in Deep Water

Water turtles encompass all deepwater turtles, which are primarily characterized by their excellent swimming abilities and their capacity to live submerged for extended periods. The following species of turtles are commonly included in this category: various species of musk turtles and egglaying turtles, such as the flatback musk turtle, the knifeback musk turtle, the stripedneck musk turtle, and the giant musk turtle. Additionally, this group also features species like the pignose turtle, map turtle, and painted turtle.

Part 2: Important Considerations for Keeping DeepWater Turtles

1. Deepwater turtles are known for their exceptional swimming skills, allowing them to stay submerged for long durations, even to dive. However, when keeping these turtles, it's crucial to gradually increase the water level rather than setting it too high from the start. This allows the turtles to acclimate to their new environment. Moreover, it's essential to provide a land area for them to rest, such as a floating platform, driftwood, or large stones within the tank, ensuring there's a place above the water surface since deepwater turtles may occasionally need to surface.

2. Install a filtration system. A filtration system is a must for deepwater turtle keeping, as it simplifies water changes and reduces the workload.

3. However, if you're keeping pignose turtles, you can disregard the above two points. These turtles are naturally adapted to deepwater habitats and do not require a specific deepwater environment or a sunning platform.

Part 3: How to Keep PigNose Turtles

1. Tank Requirements

Pignose turtles are large, so a tank measuring 60 to 80 cm in length is ideal for their housing. Since turtles move horizontally, ensure the tank is wide enough. Before using the tank for the first time, thoroughly clean and sundry it to sterilize it, and only then introduce the pignose turtle.

2. Water Quality Requirements

Pignose turtles demand highquality water, so use a filter to remove impurities and maintain clean water in the tank. Additionally, laying a layer of fine coral sand at the bottom of the tank can help adjust the water pH to slightly alkaline, which is beneficial for their growth. If using tap water, allow it to sit in the sun for about three days before filling the tank. Monitor the water quality regularly, and change it immediately if it becomes cloudy.

3. Feeding Tips

Pignose turtles are omnivorous and have a hearty appetite. You can feed them a variety of foods, including vegetables, fruits, animal organs, beef, pork, chicken, and more. Avoid feeding them spinach or spicy foods. The ratio of meat to vegetables should be 1:2, and it's best to feed them at night. After bringing a new pignose turtle home, wait a few days for it to adjust to its environment before feeding it.

As a reminder from Oxygen Pet Doctor, it's important to ensure that deepwater turtles maintain a certain level of physical activity to keep them healthy and diseaseresistant.