Podocnemis unifilis care

[catcher443]

I was wondering if anyone had any care tips for podocnemis unifilis? Also how early do they reach sexual maturity? Any info is helpful. Thanks.

 

[Yvonne G]

Hi Max:

I don't know about these turtles, however, The World Chelonian Trust is a site you can depend on:

http://www.chelonia.org/articles/podocnemiscare.htm

 

[Anthony P]

They are a great species. Very hardy, in my experience. I kept them in acidic, clean water. Keep them warm, and give them ample opportunity to bask. How large are your animals?

 

[catcher443]

I haven't purchased yet, but they would be about 4in shell length. They seem like a very cool species to work with.

 

[juli11]

They are a great species. Very hardy, in my experience. I kept them in acidic, clean water. Keep them warm, and give them ample opportunity to bask. How large are your animals?

Are they doing good in clear water? I ask this because they live in the South American rivers where the water is normally unclear...?

 

[Anthony P]

clean and clear are two different things. I went with, and would go with water stained by tannins, just like a South American river or tributary would be. Yo can accomplish this by adding driftwood, peat moss and or oak logs/leaves to the water. This stains the water a tea color and also makes the water more acidic. I find it helpful for a multitude of species that can suffer from fungal issues, along with salt.