Can Cumberland Slider Turtles Get Along With Red Eared Sliders?
If you’re an avid turtle enthusiast, you may be wondering if it’s possible to house two different species of turtles together in the same habitat. It’s an intriguing question, and one that many turtle owners want to know the answer to. In particular, can you house both Cumberland Slider turtles and Red Eared Sliders together in the same enclosure without any problems? In this article, we’ll explore all the factors that come into play when deciding if these two species of turtles can peacefully coexist.
Yes, Cumberland Slider Turtles and Red Eared Sliders can get along with each other. Both species are semi-aquatic, omnivorous turtles and share similar habitat and dietary needs. Red Eared Sliders tend to be more aggressive and territorial, so they may need a larger enclosure to have enough space to separate them. However, with proper setup and care, the two species can peacefully co-exist.
to explain the topic
Can Cumberland Slider Turtles Get Along With Red Eared Sliders?
The red-eared slider (Trachemys scripta elegans) and the Cumberland slider (Trachemys scripta troostii) are two species of popular pond turtles that are often confused due to their similar appearance and behavior. While both species are commonly kept as pets, they can also be kept together. But should you do this? Let’s find out.
Compatibility of Red-Eared Slider and Cumberland Slider Turtles
Both species of turtles have similar care requirements, including ample space, water, and UVB lighting. They also both have omnivorous diets, making them easy to feed. While these similarities make them appealing, the two species have some distinct differences that can affect their compatibility.
The first difference is the size of the turtles. Red-eared sliders can reach up to 12 inches, while Cumberland sliders are typically smaller, reaching up to 8 inches. This means that the red-eared sliders will have an advantage in terms of size and strength.
The second difference is the temperament of the turtles. Red-eared sliders are often more active and aggressive than Cumberland sliders. This can be an issue if the turtles are kept together in an enclosure that is too small, as the larger red-eared sliders may become territorial and bully the smaller Cumberland sliders.
Housing Requirements for Red-Eared Slider and Cumberland Slider Turtles
The most important factor for keeping these two species together is proper housing. Red-eared sliders and Cumberland sliders should not be kept together in a small tank or aquarium. The minimum tank size for two turtles should be 75 gallons, with at least 10 gallons of water.
The tank should also be outfitted with plenty of hiding places, like rocks, logs, and plants, as well as basking spots. This will provide the turtles with plenty of space to move around and hide from each other if needed. Additionally, the tank should be fitted with a filter to keep the water clean and free of toxins and bacteria.
Cautions When Keeping Red-Eared Slider and Cumberland Slider Turtles Together
When keeping these two species of turtles together, it is important to monitor them closely. If one turtle seems to be getting bullied or is not eating, it is best to separate them and provide the turtles with their own enclosures.
It is also important to provide the turtles with plenty of food. Both species of turtles can be fed a variety of foods, including commercial turtle food, vegetables, and protein sources like worms and insects.
Conclusion: Should You Keep Red-Eared Slider and Cumberland Slider Turtles Together?
The answer to this question depends on the size of the enclosure, the temperament of the turtles, and the amount of monitoring and care you are willing to provide. If you are able to provide an appropriately sized enclosure and monitor the turtles closely, then it is possible to keep red-eared sliders and Cumberland sliders together. However, if you are not willing or able to provide the necessary care, then it is best to keep the two species separated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Cumberland Slider Turtles Get Along With Red Eared Sliders?
Answer: Yes, Cumberland slider turtles and red eared slider turtles can usually get along with each other if they are kept in the same tank. However, it is important to make sure that the tank is large enough to accommodate both species and that there are enough hiding places and basking spots for both. It is also a good idea to keep the turtles of similar sizes together, as larger turtles may bully smaller ones.
It is also important to make sure that the tank is kept clean and that the water is changed regularly, as dirty water can cause illnesses in both species. Additionally, it is important to monitor the turtles for any signs of aggression, such as chasing, biting, or shell-butting, and to separate them if necessary. Overall, with proper care, Cumberland slider turtles and red eared slider turtles can usually co-exist peacefully in the same tank.
The Difference Between Cumberland And Red Eared Slider
In conclusion, the answer to the question of whether Cumberland sliders and Red-eared sliders can get along is yes, but with careful consideration and planning. These two species are closely related and can be housed together, but for the best results, it is best to ensure that the water and habitat conditions are appropriate for both and to provide a large enough area for them to coexist. With proper care and research, these two species of slider turtles can coexist peacefully.
