How to raise green turtles
In recent years, green-haired turtles have gradually become a popular choice among pet lovers due to their unique appearance and relatively easy raising conditions. This article will introduce in detail the cultivation methods of green turtles, including the breeding environment, diet management, health care, etc., to help you successfully cultivate a healthy green turtle.
1. Basic introduction to green turtles

The green turtle is a freshwater turtle named for the green algae that often adheres to its carapace. They are docile and adaptable, making them suitable for family breeding. The following are the basic characteristics of green turtles:
| Features | Description |
|---|---|
| lifespan | 20-30 years |
| body length | Approximately 15-25 cm in adulthood |
| Suitable water temperature | 22-28℃ |
| Food habits | Omnivorous (plants, insects, small fish, etc.) |
2. Setting up the breeding environment
The breeding environment of green turtles directly affects their health and growth. The following are the key points of the breeding environment:
| Project | request |
|---|---|
| Water tank size | At least 3-4 times the length of the turtle body |
| water quality | Clean, change 1/3 of the water every week, and completely change the water every month |
| light | 6-8 hours of UV irradiation is required every day (or use UVB lamp) |
| land area | It is necessary to set up a basking platform for the turtle to rest and bask in the sun |
3. Diet management
The diet of green turtles should be balanced and varied. The following are dietary recommendations:
| food type | Proportion | Example |
|---|---|---|
| plant food | 60% | Aquatic plants, vegetables (such as spinach, carrots) |
| animal food | 30% | Small fish, shrimp, insects |
| Special turtle food | 10% | Commercially available special feed for green turtles |
4. Health Care
The health problems of green turtles require prompt attention. The following are common problems and solutions:
| question | Symptoms | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| shell softening | The carapace becomes soft and deformed | Supplement calcium and increase light |
| white eye disease | Eyes swollen and unable to open | Use turtle-specific eye drops to keep water clean |
| Loss of appetite | Refusal to eat, reduced activity | Check the water temperature and environmental pressure, and seek medical advice if necessary |
5. Breeding and care of hatchlings
The reproduction of green turtles requires specific conditions. The following are the key points for reproduction:
| stage | request |
|---|---|
| Mating | The water temperature is stable at 26-28℃, providing a quiet environment |
| lay eggs | Female turtles need a sandy egg laying area with a depth of about 10-15 cm |
| hatch | Temperature 28-30℃, humidity 80%, incubation period about 60 days |
6. Frequently Asked Questions
1.Does the algae on the green turtle’s carapace need to be cleaned?
No special cleaning is required, algae is a natural characteristic of green turtles, but the water needs to be kept clean to prevent overgrowth.
2.Can green turtles be kept with other turtles?
Mixed breeding is not recommended as differences in the habits of different turtles may lead to fights or the spread of disease.
3.Do green turtles need to hibernate?
If the water temperature is below 15°C, green turtles will enter hibernation, but it is recommended to maintain a constant temperature in captivity to avoid health risks.
With the above comprehensive care guide, you can better care for your green turtle and enjoy spending time with this unique pet. Remember, patience and careful care are the keys to raising a healthy green turtle!
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