A paludarium for one turtle should be at least 100 to 150 cm long, 50 to 60 cm wide, with a water level of at least 50 cm and walls rising another 40 to 50 cm above that. Since turtles never stop growing, always choose a tank that’s too big rather than too small.

Turtles require a lot of space. A paludarium which is too small can lead to health problems and could even result in the death of your turtle. Make sure that you give your pet the space it needs. In general, the rule is that it’s better for the paludarium to be too big than too small! But what does “too small” really mean?

Minimum dimensions

A paludarium which houses a turtle should preferably be about 100 to 150 cm long and at least 50 to 60 cm wide. The water level of the paludarium should be as high as possible, with a minimum of about 50 cm.

If you prefer to calculate the size of your paludarium based on the size of your turtle, the following minimum dimensions apply:

• Paludarium length = 6x shell length.
• Paludarium width = 4x shell width.
• Paludarium height = 1x shell length.

However, you don’t have to limit yourself to these minimum dimensions: the more swimming space your turtle has, the more fun it will have!

Above the water level

Even above the water level, it’s best to provide another 40 to 50 cm of wall because turtles are excellent climbers. That’s why this wall should not include any features which provide grip (gauze, rocks, etc.): otherwise, your turtle might escape!

Future growth

A turtle grows: this is a natural phenomenon which cannot be stopped by giving your turtle too little food or restricting its freedom of movement, for example. Of course, a small turtle can initially feel perfectly at home in a small environment but the animal will soon outgrow its habitat. That’s why small tanks with a palm tree in the middle (which you find from time to time in shops and at funfairs) are out of the question. These are not big enough even for baby turtles. A normal paludarium, measuring 60 x 30 x 30 cm, will be acceptable at the beginning of your turtle’s life and your turtle will be able to develop fully in it. However, it will eventually become too small for your animal which is why it might be better to opt for a [larger paludarium](TODO JDI) right from the start. It will inevitably be necessary!

Entry-level model

We think Tetra’s ReptoAquaSet is the ideal entry-level model for anyone looking for a ready-made solution.

This aqua-terrarium contains a powerful triple filter which removes dirt and prevents water discolouration and unpleasant odours and features LED lighting and a textured island for optimal grip when your turtle climbs up to find a dry resting place. In addition, the set also includes food and other products which have been specially developed for young turtles to ensure a balanced diet and for safe treatment of tap water. Your turtle can spend the first few years of its life here. Buy this set via the link below.

Raising the water level

You can slowly build up the water level in your young turtle’s paludarium. Start with a height of 4 cm and increase in increments of 2 cm to reach a maximum of 30 cm during your turtle’s first year of life. In this way, the water level grows with your turtle and your turtle won’t feel that it’s living in a huge sea of water.