Sadly, she had to give them up for adoption when the female became far too big to keep as a student in a dorm (she didn't know what she was getting into when she bought them, like most people).For the turtles, I'm probably going to acquire them from Chinatown, and I'll just need to do my best to guess at which ones are healthy. Preferably, I'd like to get a male and female to prevent territorial issues, and allow mating when they're ready, though I'm open to suggestions otherwise. I want two so they can keep each other company, insofar as turtles will anyway. Because they'll be very small and young, I would appreciate any advice in determining sex and age.
(By the way, I know the ethics of getting the turtles from the streets in Chinatown and around NYC. Unfortunately, I also know that by refusing to buy them, it won't stop them from being sold, so I'd rather try to rescue a few and help to keep them from worse fates. As noted here, pet stores don't necessarily know any better themselves, so their care is not assured to be any better there.)
I'm planning to get a 40 gallon tank, just for plenty of room to grow and play in. I don't exactly understand the recommendations on the tank section of the information part of the site, so if anyone has recommendations for the best form factor, I'm open to suggestions. I like the ideas I've seen here in terms of using pipe to elevate the sunning surface, and thus creating more space for the turtles to swim. Is copper pipe acceptable to build these platforms from, too? I like the idea because the pipe would naturally green, and it will blend more into the tank. If not, PVC it is - just advise me what to do and what not to do so that I don't put toxic materials in by mistake.
I need some other suggestions as well. I'd like to have some plants in the tank, ones that they can feed off of so things are a bit more natural for them. I'd also like to know what kind of fish best serve to accompany the turtles? I don't care if the turtles eat them, if that's ok in your opinions, again, more entertainment and natural behavior. The "best" kind of fish, regardless, is what I'd like to know. I am also thinking about putting down just one layer of relatively large river rocks (something they could never eat, but can move and burrow through if they like). Do you think it's better to do that, or just leave it empty (and yes, I know this is sort of a preference item, I just want to hear your feedback). Finally, what about snails to help in cleaning the tank? Yes, I know they can multiply like tribbles.
Aside from that, can anyone recommend specific pump models and light options? Anything else I'm forgetting?
Otherwise, I know the basics, I have a surface planned for the aquarium which will hold the weight of 400+ lbs. I will be using some type of screened top, clamped down to prevent cat-like interference, and escape artistry. The tank area will be out of the way from direct sunlight, and though it'll be in the living room, it is actually the quietest room of the apartment, and least used. I will also be making a fake background screen to put up to give them privacy from time to time.
Thanks, everyone! I know it's a lot of questioning considering I don't even have them, but I want to make sure things are perfect and homey for them before they ever get here. I appreciate your help, and so will they!
- Katie
