Raising A Softshell Turtle

Raising A Softshell Turtle

Raising A Softshell Turtle

Raising a softshell turtle (family Trionychidae)—such as the spiny softshell (Apalone spinifera) or smooth softshell (Apalone mutica)—is a fascinating but demanding endeavor. These highly aquatic, fast-swimming turtles have unique anatomical and behavioral traits that require specialized care. They are not recommended for beginners, but with the right setup, they can thrive in captivity for 20–50+ years.

1. Understand the Species

• Appearance: Leathery, flexible shell (no hard scutes), long neck, snorkel-like snout

• Size:

  • Males: 5–10 inches

  • Females: 8–18+ inches (some species grow very large!)

• Temperament: Solitary, fast, and can be aggressive—may bite if handled

• Lifespan: 20–50+ years

• Habitat in wild: Sandy-bottomed rivers, lakes, and ponds with strong water flow and minimal vegetation

⚠️ Important: Softshells grow much larger than most pet turtles—plan for their adult size from day one.

2. Enclosure Requirements

Tank Size (Indoor)

• Hatchlings: Minimum 40-gallon tank (long style)

• Adults:

  • Males: 125+ gallons

  • Females: 180–300+ gallons or custom pond/tub

• Water depth: At least 1.5–2 times the turtle’s carapace length (they need room to swim and dive)

🌊 Outdoor ponds are ideal for adults in warm climates (USDA zones 7–10), but must be deep, sandy-bottomed, and escape-proof.

3. Habitat Setup Essentials

Substrate – CRITICAL

• Use fine, soft sand only (e.g., pool filter sand or silica-free play sand)

• Depth: 2–4 inches

• Why? Softshells bury themselves for camouflage and ambush hunting. Gravel or bare bottoms can cause shell abrasions or stress.

Water Quality

• Filtration: Heavy-duty canister filter or sump system (rated for 3–5x tank volume)—softshells are extremely messy

• Water changes: 30–50% weekly

• Water flow: Moderate current mimics natural river habitat (use powerheads if needed)

• Dechlorinate all water

Temperature

• Water: 75–80°F (24–27°C)

• Basking area: 85–90°F (29–32°C)

• Use a fully guarded submersible heater (softshells can bite exposed elements)

Lighting

• UVB lighting is essential—despite spending most time underwater

  • Use a 5.0 or 6% linear UVB tube (e.g., ZooMed ReptiSun, Arcadia)

  • Replace every 6–12 months

• Basking area: Must be dry, stable, and fully exposed to UVB—even if rarely used

🐢 Note: Softshells do bask, often partially submerged or on muddy banks—provide a smooth, flat basking platform (e.g., slate rock or commercial dock).

4. Feeding Your Softshell Turtle

Softshells are strict carnivores with high protein needs.

Diet

• Live/frozen foods:

  • Earthworms, nightcrawlers, crickets, grasshoppers

  • Small fish (guppies, minnows—avoid goldfish)

  • Shrimp, krill, bloodworms, silversides

• Commercial food: High-protein sinking pellets (e.g., Mazuri Softshell Turtle Diet)

• Avoid: Processed meats, bread, or plant matter (they cannot digest it well)

Feeding Tips

• Feed in water—they hunt by ambush and suction

• Use feeding tongs to avoid accidental bites

• Juveniles: Daily

• Adults: Every other day

• Remove uneaten food promptly

Supplements

• Calcium (without D3 if using UVB): 2–3 times/week

• Multivitamin: Once weekly

5. Behavior & Handling

• Highly sensitive: Poor water quality or stress can lead to shell lesions or illness

• Do not handle—they are nervous, fast, and have long necks that can reach back to bite

• Solitary animals: House alone—cannibalism and aggression are common in groups

6. Health Concerns

• Shell rot: From abrasions or dirty water

• Fungal infections: Appear as white patches on skin or shell

• Respiratory infections: Caused by cold temps or poor air quality

• Vitamin deficiencies: From improper diet or lack of UVB

• Always consult a reptile/exotic veterinarian at first sign of illness

7. Legal & Ethical Notes

• Many states restrict or prohibit softshell turtle ownership

• Never take from the wild—wild populations are declining

• Adopt or buy captive-bred from reputable sources only

Quick Care Summary

Raising a softshell turtle is a serious, long-term commitment—but for experienced keepers, they are captivating, unique reptiles with prehistoric charm. Plan big, filter heavily, and prioritize sand, space, and protein.

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