What Fish Can Live With A Red Eared Slider Turtle?

Are you looking to add a fish to your aquarium that can live with your red-eared slider turtle? There are a few fish species that can make good tankmates for your turtle, and it’s important to select the right species before introducing them to the same tank. In this article, we’ll discuss what fish can live with a red-eared slider turtle and provide a few tips to help you choose the right species.

What Fish Can Live With a Red Eared Slider Turtle?

Red-eared slider turtles are popular pets, particularly in the United States. These aquatic turtles are relatively easy to care for and can live for a long time with proper care. The turtles can be kept in an aquarium and typically enjoy the company of other aquatic species, such as fish. If you are considering keeping a red-eared slider turtle as a pet, it is important to know which fish can safely live with it.

Types of Fish That Can Live With a Red Eared Slider Turtle

When selecting fish for your red-eared slider turtle aquarium, it is important to choose species that will not become snacks for the turtle. Generally, fish with small bodies and bright colors such as tetras, guppies, rasboras, and danios are good choices. These fish are typically too small and fast for the turtle to catch and eat. Other types of fish that can live with a red-eared slider turtle include mollies, platies, and corydoras catfish.

In addition to selecting fish that can outmaneuver the turtle, it is important to choose species that will not compete with the turtle for food. Many species of bottom-dwelling fish can coexist peacefully with a red-eared slider turtle. Good choices include loaches, bristlenose plecos, and hillstream loaches. These fish feed mostly on algae, which is not a major part of the turtle’s diet.

Fish to Avoid

When selecting fish for the aquarium, it is important to avoid species that are too similar in size and diet to the turtle. Goldfish and other large fish can become prey for the turtle and should be avoided. Smaller species such as neon tetras and guppies should also be avoided because they can be seen as competition for food.

It is also important to avoid fish that are not compatible with the turtle in terms of water conditions. Red-eared slider turtles prefer warm water and do not do well in cooler temperatures. Therefore, it is important to avoid cold-water species such as goldfish, which prefer water in the mid-70s Fahrenheit.

Tank Setup for Red-Eared Slider Turtles and Fish

When keeping a red-eared slider turtle and fish in the same tank, it is important to provide the appropriate environment for both species. The tank should be large enough to easily accommodate both species and should be equipped with a filter to keep the water clean.

The tank should also include plenty of hiding spots and a basking area. The basking area should be equipped with a light, which will help to keep the water temperature warm. Live plants can also be added to the tank to provide hiding spots for the fish and a natural food source for the turtle.

Feeding Fish and Turtles Together

When feeding a red-eared slider turtle and fish together, it is important to ensure that both species receive the right amount of food. The turtle should be given a diet of commercial turtle pellet food and occasional treats such as shrimp, earthworms, and crickets. The fish should be given a diet of commercial fish food, such as flakes and pellets.

It is important to feed the turtle and fish separately to avoid competition for food. The turtle should be fed first, then the fish can be fed after the turtle has finished eating. This will help to ensure that both species receive adequate nutrition and will help to keep the tank clean.

Compatibility of Other Aquatic Species

In addition to fish, red-eared slider turtles can also be kept with other aquatic species such as aquatic snails and crayfish. Aquatic snails are a great addition to any turtle tank, as they help to keep the tank clean by consuming algae and other debris. Crayfish can also be kept with red-eared slider turtles, although they should be monitored closely to ensure that they do not become a snack for the turtle.

Water Quality and Maintenance

When keeping a red-eared slider turtle and fish together, it is important to maintain high water quality. The water should be tested regularly for ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels, and it should be changed every two weeks or as needed.

It is also important to clean the filter regularly to ensure that it is functioning properly. The filter should be cleaned at least once a month, or more often if necessary. In addition, the tank should be vacuumed and the decorations should be cleaned to remove any build-up of debris or algae.

Health Concerns

When keeping red-eared slider turtles and fish together, it is important to monitor both species for signs of illness or injury. Turtles and fish can both be susceptible to various diseases, such as bacterial infections and parasites. If any signs of illness are observed, it is important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible.

Safety Concerns

When keeping a red-eared slider turtle and fish together, it is important to ensure that the tank is secure and escape-proof. Turtles are notorious escape artists and can easily climb out of the tank if it is not adequately secured. It is also important to ensure that the tank is not easily accessible to small children or pets, as they may be tempted to reach into the tank and handle the turtle or fish.

Conclusion

Red-eared slider turtles can live peacefully with other aquatic species, such as fish, snails, and crayfish. When selecting fish for the tank, it is important to choose species that will not become prey for the turtle or compete for food. It is also important to provide the appropriate tank setup and to maintain high water quality. Finally, it is important to monitor both species for signs of illness and to ensure that the tank is secure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Fish Can Live With a Red Eared Slider Turtle?

Answer: A variety of fish can live with a red-eared slider turtle. The most important factor to consider when selecting tank mates for a red-eared slider is compatibility. Tank mates should be fairly peaceful and not too small, otherwise they may become a snack for the turtle.

Some suitable fish for a red-eared slider turtle tank include guppies, platies, mollies, swordtails, angel fish, barbs, and various species of catfish. These fish will coexist peacefully with the turtle and help to maintain the tank’s water quality. Avoid aggressive species, such as cichlids, and any other fish that could become a turtle snack.

What Size Tank Is Needed for a Red Eared Slider Turtle?

Answer: A red-eared slider turtle will need at least a 30-gallon tank in order to have enough swimming space. If there are other tank mates, such as fish, the tank should be larger. A 55-gallon tank is a good option for a single turtle, but larger tanks are always preferable. It is important to note that the tank should be long rather than tall. This will provide the turtle with more room to swim and move around.

In addition to providing enough space, the tank should also be equipped with a basking spot, a place to hide, and a water filter. The basking spot should be large enough for the turtle to climb out of the water and rest. The water should also be kept clean with regular water changes and a good filter.

What Temperature Should Water Be for a Red Eared Slider Turtle?

Answer: The water temperature in a red-eared slider turtle tank should be kept between 70-78°F (21-26°C). This temperature range is ideal for the turtle and its tank mates, if any. It is important to monitor the water temperature regularly to ensure it does not drop too low, as this can stress the turtle and make it prone to disease.

In order to maintain the desired temperature, a submersible aquarium heater can be used. This device should be placed in the tank and adjusted until the desired temperature is achieved. It is also important to make sure the heater is working properly and is not placed in an area where the turtle can access it and potentially get burned.

What Lighting Is Needed for a Red Eared Slider Turtle Tank?

Answer: A red-eared slider turtle tank will need both natural and artificial lighting. Natural lighting can be achieved by placing the tank in a location that receives indirect sunlight for several hours a day. This will help to regulate the turtle’s body temperature and provide some beneficial vitamin D.

In addition to natural lighting, the tank will also need an artificial light source. This should be a full-spectrum light designed specifically for aquatic turtles. The light should be placed on one side of the tank and should be turned on for 12-14 hours each day. This will provide the turtle with the necessary UVB light it needs to synthesize vitamin D3 and metabolize calcium.

What Are the Benefits of Adding Plants to a Red Eared Slider Turtle Tank?

Answer: Adding plants to a red-eared slider turtle tank can provide a number of benefits. Firstly, they can help to improve water quality by absorbing excess nutrients and helping to maintain the optimal pH level. Plants can also provide a hiding spot for the turtle, and some species can even be eaten by the turtle.

In addition to these benefits, plants can also help to make the tank more aesthetically pleasing. Live plants will provide a splash of color and add a natural touch to the tank. This can be especially beneficial if the tank is visible in a living area, as it will help to make the tank more appealing. However, it is important to choose aquarium-safe plants to ensure they are not toxic to the turtle.

TOP 5 FISH for TURTLE TANKMATES

In conclusion, it is possible to keep Red Eared Slider Turtles with a variety of fish, provided that the tank is big enough and the water is properly filtered and maintained. Fish such as goldfish, catfish, small species of cichlids, and small species of tetras make particularly good tank mates, as they are relatively peaceful and not too large, allowing the turtle to still be the dominant species in the tank. Be sure to research the types of fish that are compatible with a Red Eared Slider Turtle before making any purchases, as some fish may be too large or aggressive for the turtle to handle.